By Li Bu　

Date: 2004/08/15

Abstract: 　　

Since the second quarter of 2004, over investment in the steel industry has been subdued. Steel prices tend to be stabilized. Effects of macro-control policies are obvious. It is predicted that the latter half of the year will see a possible balance in supply and demand of steel products. However, structural contradictions are still there. Affected by international steel market, domestic steel prices remain stable with a little fluctuation. But a watchful eye should be kept on the risk of severe fluctuations incurred by market speculation. The government should monitor changes in steel market in a timely manner and improve the transparency of steel supply and demand and information on prices through timely information release so as to forestall irrational speculative behavior of some market entities and ensure the smooth and orderly performance of the steel market.