Global issues could hinder steel rebound OECD Steel Commmittee head

Dec 10, 2010 | 12:37 PM |

There are clear indications that the global steel industry is emerging from what was the worst economic slowdown in more than half a century. But the situation remains "fluid and challenging" for global steelmakers, according to the steel committee chairman at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

In remarks at a recent meeting of the OECD Steel Committee in Paris, chairman Risaburo Neu said production, demand from end-user industries like construction and automotive, and trade came down significantly in 2008 and 2009. The situation has improved as 2010 draws to a close, Neu told delegates. Steel demand, production and prices have shown varying degrees of upward movement based on strong growth in emerging markets but significantly lower growth trends in developed markets, Neu said. ....