Brazil imported 4,700 mt of CRC in May, 45 percent less than in April, at an average FOB price 25 percent lower, $512/mt, said the ministry of development, industry and foreign trade, MDIC.
China (3,200 mt at $439/mt FOB) and South Korea (1,200 mt at $630/mt FOB) were the main suppliers.
The reduced volume reflects chiefly imports by a trader in the northeastern state of Piaui, reduced from 5,000 mt in April to 800 mt in May.
Meanwhile, Brazilian producers exported 10,400 mt of CRC in May, against 4,000 mt in April, reflecting 8,200 mt exported to the EU, versus no exports in April, while 2,200 mt were exported to Argentina.
The average FOB export price, $395/mt, points to exports by Usiminas at $381/mt, by CSN at $430/mt and by ArcelorMittal at $517/mt, all FOB conditions at price deals probably closed in March.
A major exporter told SteelOrbis that he is exporting the product of the basic commercial grades at $570/mt, FOB.