Assofermet reported a significant drop in international scrap prices during April 2025, with a particularly strong impact on the Turkish market. The association noted that this trend prompted steel producers to request substantial price reductions. Additionally, large-scale seaborne scrap imports from non-EU countries led to a decline in domestic market volumes and obscured the ongoing decrease in industrial scrap generation. The association expects a negative market outlook for May.
According to Assofermet, Turkish scrap prices fell sharply by USD 50–55/MT in April. A similar downward trend was observed across Asian markets. In Europe, particularly in Spain and France, prices declined as well—with France recording a drop of around EUR 30 by early May.
The association’s report highlighted that the collapse in nickel prices had a direct impact on stainless steel and alloy prices. The resulting price pressure, coupled with market uncertainty, led to stagnation in trading activities, with buyers waiting for stability and sellers adopting a cautious stance.
Assofermet also emphasized that high volatility in exchange rates, especially in the euro/dollar pair, complicated international deals and further contributed to market uncertainty.
The report noted that pig iron demand remained weak throughout April. Holiday-related slowdowns and low scrap prices negatively affected purchasing interest. Despite Russian pig iron being offered at low prices, buyer interest remained limited.
Looking ahead, Assofermet expects continued price pressure and weak demand in May. The association also warned that new tariffs and geopolitical developments could further increase market uncertainty.
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