Yehui's Zhang Zhenwu: Currency Pressure Challenges Yet Steel Demand Expected to Recover

Yehui (2023) held its shareholders' meeting on the 18th where General Manager Zhang Zhenwu stated that although the steel industry faces challenges from currency fluctuations and tariffs, demand remains strong. Yehui exports approximately 70% of its products, with the U.S. market accounting for about 30%.
Zhang mentioned that customers are hesitant due to tariff impacts, but the U.S. market still has a shortfall in production capacity, necessitating inventory replenishment. Yehui exports to 138 countries and holds channel advantages, indicating that sales are expected to stabilize in the second half.
Regarding tariffs, Zhang noted that discussions are ongoing about sharing tariff costs, with customers able to absorb a 25% tariff on certain products like solar panel mounts and servers, and Yehui absorbing a portion of the tariff ranging from 7.5% to 12.5%.
On currency fluctuations, Zhang expressed that the rapid appreciation of the New Taiwan Dollar has more impact than tariffs, leading to reduced profits. However, he remains optimistic about demand rebounding, believing that as tariffs stabilize and currency fluctuations level out, business opportunities will return.
Moreover, Zhang emphasized that Yehui not only sells products but also adds value through services. This year, two production lines will be added to enhance the surface quality of steel, further upgrading products like servers. Despite incurring losses from investments, Yehui continues to make progress in the market, anticipating revenues of NT$73.98 billion in 2024 and an after-tax loss of NT$1.59 billion.