The market has become more active after a long period of silence. In the past few weeks, buyers have resumed buying as stocks have dwindled and they need material for the end of the year. Transaction levels have recovered to as high as €40/ton ($42) on contracts compared to early October lows.
Producers are increasing values due to higher processing, energy and imported plate costs. This is expected to maintain values at least until the end of 2023. Slab producers are indicating December delivery times and reporting low stocks.
On average, S275 is currently trading between €670-690/t delivered, while S355 is trading at €20-30/t higher. A producer source said that they are planning to increase their values to €720/t on delivery and €750/t as a second step.
According to other market participants, 2023 is expected to be a positive year for plate sales despite the downward trend in Q4.
In Italy, Asian import plate contracts are rumoured to hover around $570-580/t cfr Italy.
Comments
No comment yet.