a message from the president business conditions continued to be difficult in first six months ending september 2000 spurred by growing investment information technology it private sector capital expenditure rose and exports asia were strong while economy its gradual recovery consumer spending was weak with this background we began carry out our consolidated midterm management plan unveiled may maximize profitability have been strengthening involvement three strategic areas automotive lightweighting independent power producer environmental as well improving financial position interim period sales 654 7 billion aided higher steel shipments product prices at semiconductor subsidiary operating income 52 5 net 2 due extraordinary losses brought about introduction of retirement benefit accounting instrument segment performance iron 263 fell domestic market both overseas went up 24 4 despite lower owing costs restructuring other cost reduction
