Media Reports on the Possible Business Integration between Nippon Steel Corporation and Sumitomo Metal Industries， Ltd.

There were reports in the media today concerning the merger ratio, the name of the integrated company to be established and other matters in connection with the possible business integration between Nippon Steel Corporation and Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. (the “Business Integration”). While Nippon Steel and Sumitomo Metals have been discussing the Business Integration, no decisions regarding the Business Integration have been made since the announcement of the commencement of consideration of the Business Integration on February 3, 2011. Nippon Steel will make an announcement in a timely manner after any decision regarding the Business Integration has been made.