(Scrap Register): European flat product transaction
values rebounded, in March, as import pressure from non-EU suppliers
declined.
In March’s issue of the European Steel Review, MEPS reports that European
selling values increased, from relatively low levels, this month, after
falling for much of last year.
Western European steelmakers announced their second price hike, since the
start of the year. Buyers appear to be placing orders at the higher price
level due to a lack of attractive import offers.
Quotations from Chinese mills rose significantly, this month. The
introduction of preliminary antidumping duties on cold rolled coil from
China and Russia also hampered import penetration from overseas
suppliers.
In Germany, customers reported that order intake had improved. French
service centres noted that flat product market activity remained firm, in
March.
Positive price movements have been recorded in Italy. UK selling figures
were boosted by improved distribution activity.
In Belgium, domestic figures are higher than those in February. Tighter
supply availability lifted Spanish transaction values, this month.