It is reported that South Korea''s import volume of billet in May 2009 was expected to be at 60,000 tonnes. As reported, billet imports in April 29th 2009 totaled at 59,000 tonnes in South Korea, which is equal to 62,000 tonnes in March 2009.

Main factor behind the hike amid the gloomy market is the stable exchange rate and falling billet inventory. However, the demand remains to be weak and the imports do not see great jump.

The import price averages at USD 404 per tonne in April 2009, down by USD 18 per tonne from March 2009. Most resources are shipped from Japan and 4985 tonnes are from Russia.