China's Stainless Production Set For Modest Growth
In 2007, China is projected to consume up to 6.5 million tons of stainless
steel, up 9.24% from 2006. Stainless steel production will be about the same
6.5 million tons, down from 7 million tons in 2006, as high nickel prices have
caused cutbacks in domestic mills. Total capacity of China’s stainless steel
production plants will grow to 12 million tons this year, up 20% from
2006.
Li Cheng said that although more than 70% of the country’s stainless steel
demand could be met by domestic production, China is still relatively weak at
high-end stainless production.