European steel market continues to seek direction

The European steel market has been exhibiting a complex outlook in recent weeks, as rising energy and raw material costs continue to push producer prices upward, while weak end-user demand limits the pass-through of these increases across the market. Uncertainty stemming from geopolitical developments is having a direct impact on both production planning and trade flows. In addition to risks linked to the Middle East, disruptions in logistics chains and volatility in freight rates remain key factors shaping price formation.