In the European hot-rolled coil (HRC) market, producers continue to push for higher prices, while trading volumes have yet to reach the desired levels due to resistance from buyers. Trading activity in Northern Europe remains limited, with producers’ offers at EUR730–740/mt EXW finding acceptance in the market, although buyers are questioning higher levels.
A similar picture is emerging in Italy. Despite rising prices, weak end-user demand and stagnation in the manufacturing sector are making buyers cautious about building stocks. According to market sources, current price increases are being supported not by a strong recovery in consumption, but rather by supply constraints, import conditions and producers’ pricing policies.
However, market sources expect European HRC prices to increase by around EUR20–30/mt after 15 September. The acceleration of purchasing activity following the summer period, limited domestic supply and more challenging import conditions could provide producers with further room to raise their prices.
Current Situation in the Balkan Steel Market
The Balkan steel market has shown a differentiated picture across individual countries. In Romania, high stock levels and weak end-user consumption have led buyers to avoid large-volume purchases. The addition of CBAM, customs and logistics costs to imports from Türkiye has significantly limited their price advantage.
During the week of 7 September, HRC prices in Romania stood at EUR730/mt, while rebar was at EUR620/mt. Rebar prices stood at EUR625/mt in Bulgaria and EUR665/mt in Kosovo.
In Greece, ongoing EU-funded construction projects continued to support steel demand. However, cautious expectations for the market outlook have emerged due to the potential for an economic slowdown, elections and geopolitical risks in 2027.
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