Prices for rolled products in Europe in the domestic market remained mostly stable during the week to July 9, as low demand and the start of the summer holiday season continued to limit market activity and affect sentiment.
Rebar prices in Northwestern Europe remained within a narrow range. The range, depending on the volume, ranges from 600 to 615 euros per ton for delivery to Benelux and from 615 to 630 euros per ton for delivery to Germany.
"The holiday season has started, and there is no real demand at the moment," the distributor said. "The factories are hoping to receive some orders, but most of them are preparing for maintenance over the next four to five weeks."
In Southern Europe, rebar supply remains limited, market participants are focused on September shipments, and few expect significant activity until the second half of August.
Prices in the "merchant bar" and "medium" segments remained virtually unchanged, despite expectations from some factories to increase supply after the holidays.
"Some factories, such as Arcelor, have hinted at raising prices for beams after the holidays," a source at the service center said. "But we have already come across this strategy — first we accept orders, and then we keep prices at the same level."
It was reported that carbon steel surcharges were offered in the range of 20 to 40 euros per ton, although sources stressed that the real demand for long products certified according to environmental standards remains low.
Platts estimated rebar from Northwest Europe at 610 euros per ton from the factory, which is 10 euros lower than in a week. Platts estimated the average rebar production at 775 euros per ton, which is 5 euros more than in a week.
Platts estimated the average production of rebar, both carbon-adjusted and carbon-adjusted, at 30 euros per ton, which is stable throughout the week.
Devbrat Saha
