Long products and beams prices in Italy remain largely stable, despite the broader market downturn affecting wire rod, rebar, mesh and all flat products. The recent increase in scrap prices within the country also appears to be on the wane, indicating a potential decline in the future.
The current trend, combined with the weakness observed in the Turkish scrap and steel markets, is of concern to European long products manufacturers, who are closely monitoring developments in Turkey. Southern Europe.
Several sources at the factories and among buyers tell[b]Kallanish[/b]that Spain is experiencing a similar economic downturn, and uncertainty reigns in the market. In Northern Europe, three sources report that buyers strongly reject the increased prices currently in effect in France, Germany, Austria and other countries for long products, and insist on discounts in future contracts.
A major buyer in France said he would refrain from purchasing any materials unless he secured a guarantee. price reduction, which is consistent with the current decrease in demand for secondary products. Two buyers in France and Austria say they are taking a wait-and-see attitude, while German factories are trying to maintain their high prices by starting to lose orders.
Demand for bars in Italy continues to show significant weakness, and the outlook for the coming weeks is pessimistic Manufacturers are considering price increases to mitigate the ongoing decline, however, there is tangible concern about the potential loss of orders.
Domestic bar prices are currently under pressure due to import offers from Turkey and Spain at significantly lower prices than from Italy. The price of timber for sale in the domestic market is approximately 650-670 euros per ton (742-765 US dollars), including additional dimensions.
The price of timber of the first category consistently ranges from 780-790 euros per ton, including shipping costs. Lower prices are available, as the Spanish material is offered at a discount of 40 euros per ton, and competition and supply in the country have increased significantly, with more and more manufacturers focusing on the sale of beams.
Meanwhile, the demand for Italian fittings is also decreasing, and prices are decreasing every year. a week. Currently, prices have reached 250 euros per ton from the base plant. Manufacturers sell finished products at a price of 510-520 euros per ton, including additional sizes of 260-270 euros per ton.
Natalia Capra France
