Pipes and Tubes.
9.—In iron pipes and tubes Great Britain supplied Japan in 1890 with 159,000 yen worth, out of a total purchase of 166,000 dollars—an increase of 98,000 dollars worth in two years.
Nails.
10.—In nails, however, Great Britain has fallen behind and given place to Germany. Indeed, her Majesty's Consul at Yokohama says in his report for last year:—
"The consumption of wire nails is steadily increasing. The demand for nail rod is now almost extinct—manufactured nails being taken instead. These nails are now mostly of German, and a few of Belgian origin."
This is corroborated by the purchase from England of nails having fallen from 342,000 dollars worth in 1888 to 134,000 dollars worth in 1890.
Screws.
This is the more remarkable as in iron screws, Great Britain holds the market with a supply of 70,000 dollars worth in 1890, against only 2000 dollars worth by Germany, and a like amount by France.
Steel.
11.—In steel 162,000 dollars worth was obtained from England out of a gross importation amounting to 194,000, France supplying 23,300 dollars worth, and Germany, subject to the observations in paragraph 6, only 3900 dollars.