Japan: Nickel-based stainless steel import share rebounds in Apr-Jun’26 as Vietnam, Indonesia gain ground

• Chinese, Taiwanese shares decline sharply after anti-dumping measures
• Vietnam becomes Japan’s 2nd-largest supplier after South Korea in Jul’26

In Japan, the share of imported nickel-based stainless cold-rolled steel sheets in the domestic market is estimated to have recovered to 26% in April-June, from 22% in January-March, as imports from Vietnam, Indonesia and other Asian countries increased following a sharp decline in Chinese and Taiwanese supplies. The shift comes after Japan’s provisional anti-dumping measures against products from China and Taiwan.

Import landscape shifts

Imported material accounted for an estimated 30% of Japan’s apparent consumption in 2025, up from 27% in 2024 and 20% in 2021. China and Taiwan had together accounted for more than 70% of imported material during the period of strong inflows, particularly from late 2024 through 2025.

Imports from China declined sharply from October-December, while Taiwanese supplies fell in January-March. However, the decline was partly offset in April-June by higher shipments from Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, India and Malaysia.

Vietnamese imports exceeded 2,000 t for the second consecutive month in June, making it Japan’s second-largest supplier after South Korea. Indonesia ranked third with around 1,400 t.

Trade measures reshape supply

Japan issued a provisional decision on  19 June in its anti-dumping investigation into nickel-based stainless cold-rolled sheets from China and Taiwan, with provisional duties starting 9 July. The measures have accelerated the shift in supplier mix.

Domestic producers remain concerned about continued high import volumes amid oversupply in Asia. Market acceptance of products from alternative Asian origins, particularly materials derived mainly from nickel pig iron, remains uncertain as selling channels diversify.

The provisional anti-dumping duty on Taiwanese producers is currently 3.6%. Any subsequent revision could influence Taiwanese supply and further alter Japan’s import mix.

Outlook

Japan’s domestic producers may regain some market share as Chinese and Taiwanese supplies decline. However, rising shipments from Vietnam, Indonesia and other Asian suppliers could limit the recovery. Import trends and market acceptance of these alternative origins are likely to remain key factors through the coming quarters.

Note: This article is published as part of a content exchange agreement between Japan Metal Daily and BigMint.