The Chinese Invasion - A Survival Guide To Japan'S Refractories Industry

The Japanese refractories industry is facing tough times. A decline in steel production combined with the general specific demand volume decline experienced by the sector as a whole, the appreciation of the yen, and the import of cheaper Chinese refractory bricks have all served to put downward pressure on refractory prices. While the global refractories industry is rationalising to maintain profitability, the Japanese are reluctant to adopt such drastic measures. This feature examines the survival tactics that are being adopted in the face of mounting competition from China and a declining domestic market.