Valin Xiangtan Steel produced more than 500,000 tons each of pig iron and steel in May, attained a profit of 41 million yuan and broke a new record in energy consumption per ton of steel. Having received an increasing inquires from Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea and Japan, the mill realized a full operation at its wire, rod and sheet production lines beginning May 15. Demand from home market also became firmer. Orders from China State Shipping Corporation increased to 50,000 tons in April from just 30,000 tons in March.