Little has changed within the US domestic A-53 electric resistance welded (ERW) black plain end (BPE) Grade A standard pipe market, as order activity, inquiries and spot price ranges have remained consistent in the past two weeks. Meanwhile, sources have confirmed mills are still hungry for orders, and although the most commonly reported spot transaction range continues to be $47.00-$48.00 cwt. ($1,036-$1,058/mt or $940-$960/nt) ex-Midwest mill, deals between $1.00-$2.00 cwt. ($22-$44/mt or $20-$40/nt) below that range are available to those interested in placing larger orders.
Imports have also held their ground at status-quo. Offer prices for A-53 ERW BPE Grade A standard pipe from Korea are on par with ranges reported two weeks ago. The average sales price range in the US from Korea has remained at $41.00-$42.00 cwt. ($901-$926/mt or $820-$840/nt) DDP loaded truck US Gulf coast ports. Trader sources continue to report that they are buying only what they need in terms of position tons, while US buyers are holding off placing any significant orders as well.