Sheet metal prices in Northern Europe rose in the week to Thursday, January 22, thanks to the Carbon Dioxide Emissions Control Mechanism (CBAM), while the Italian market remained unchanged but optimistic.
Northern Europe
The prices of rolled products in the domestic market of Northern Europe increased in the last pricing period against the background of increased supply, which was facilitated by the lack of competition from imports and uncertainty related to the final EU CBAM regime, which entered into force on January 1, while rising prices for raw materials for the production of rolled products increased the pressure for higher prices
."The decrease in imports caused by uncertainty about CBAM and protective measures has prompted more buyers to rely on domestic supplies," one of the sources said.
They added that these conditions contributed to higher prices in the domestic market.
Fastmarkets' weekly price estimate for domestic 8-40 mm thick rolled steel exported to Northern Europe on Thursday was 720-750 euros ($846-881) per ton, an increase of 20-50 euros per ton from 700 euros per ton a week earlier.
During the week, offers were received for the S235 plate at a price of 720-770 euros per ton.
An offer was reported to import S355 material at a price of 710 euros per ton CIF in Antwerp, including the cost of CBAM.
Participants in the rolled plate market have expressed additional concerns about CBAM due to "complete uncertainty about the actual value of the imported slab[feedstock]," especially regarding the high default values that are indicated if actual emission data cannot be verified.
And one of the nameplate dealers said that big questions remain about which certification bodies will verify the actual emissions data.
They added that many producers have stocked up on raw materials until the end of 2025 due to the uncertainty surrounding CBAM, but added that restocking will be required in the near future.
Although during the week, several deals were concluded on the Italian slab import market at a price of $ 520 per ton.
Italy
Prices did not change on the Italian heavy steel spot market, but the mood remained optimistic amid new deals and increased lead times.
Fastmarkets' weekly price estimate for domestic 8-40 mm thick rolled steel exported to Southern Europe was 700-720 euros per ton on Thursday, unchanged week-to-week.
It was also reported that the material is sold at a price of 750 euros per ton, but for project work, which is often long-term or requires special grades.
And also
