A source from a Brazilian exporter told SteelOrbis that $735/mt, FOB conditions, is the new reference price for the export of hot dipped galvanized products (HDG), against $726/mt FOB two weeks ago.
The previous price, having the G40 grade, 4,75mm thickness product as reference, was stable since a 12 percent increase in early December.
According to the source, the relatively small increase puts offers in line with current international prices, adding that the recent strengthening of the BRL vis-à-vis the USD has also played a role in the decision to increase the price, as exporter were receiving less BRL from the export prices.
In January, for price deals probably closed in November, Brazil exported 42,000 mt of HDG, 50 percent more than in December 2016, at an average FOB price stable at $691/mt.
CSN exported 28,400 mt at $697/mt, Usiminas 8,200 mt at $538/mt and ArcelorMittal 5,200 mt at $843/mt, all FOB conditions. The main destinations were the US, with 21,000 mt at $673/mt FOB, all shipped by CSN; and Argentina, with 14,900 mt at $790/mt FOB.
Meanwhile, Brazil imported in January 26,100 mt of HDG from China at $561/mt FOB.
