2012 New Year Message from President Hiroshi Tomono

Hiroshi Tomono, Representative Director and President of Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. delivered a new year’s message to all employees working for the Sumitomo Metals Group on January 4, 2012, at 11 a.m., Japan time.

[Condensed version]
The new year will be our year of progress. We will integrate with Nippon Steel in October to start a new era in our history as Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation. We will be the world’s second largest in crude steel production, our goal is to become the top steelmaker by all other criteria, including profit, technology, costs, speed in decision-making, evaluation by customers, and contribution to the environment and society. Let’s all share our goal and endeavor to create the new company under the motto of “Best for the New Company”.

As of January 1, Sumitomo Metals (Kokura) and Sumitomo Metals (Naoetsu) merged with Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. and made a start.

In addition to the integration with Nippon Steel, I would like you to keep in mind three important topics in 2012.

(1) Do your best as professionals
I would like us all to deliver results toward our goal. For this purpose, all of us should think about performing better. Let’s make the best.

(2) Strengthen our bases in Japan and accelerate overseas development
We have many exciting projects in Japan and overseas this year. Let’s make sure that their successful launch will contribute greatly for us to become the world’s best steelmaker.
In addition to your work performance, optimal use of your communication capabilities is greatly desired. I wish you all to exercise your best on the global arena.

(3) Safety and compliance
Please thoroughly follow internal and social rules. This is how you can protect yourself, your family, and your colleagues in workplace.