Mainstream ex-China steel plate offer prices from mills have been heard at $475-485/mt FOB for June shipment as of today, Monday, March 31, remaining stable on average as compared to March 24. The reference deal prices have been heard at $475-480/mt FOB to South America, Africa, and the Middle East, also moving sideways on average compared to March 24.
During the week, steel plate prices in the Chinese domestic market fluctuated within a limited range as production gradually resumed following previous maintenance shutdowns. A shortage of certain steel plate specifications provided some support for prices. However, demand from downstream users fell short of market expectations, though it is expected to improve soon with better weather conditions. Overall, steel plate prices in the Chinese domestic market are anticipated to remain stable in the coming week.
Average Q235 20 mm steel plate spot prices in China have lost RMB 3/mt ($0.4/mt) compared to March 24, standing at RMB 3,540/mt ($494/mt) ex-warehouse, according to SteelOrbis’ information.
As of March 31, HRC futures at Shanghai Futures Exchange are standing at RMB 3,342/mt ($466/mt), decreasing by RMB 54/mt ($7.5/mt) or 1.6 percent since March 24, while down 0.86 percent compared to the previous trading day, March 28.
$1 = RMB 7.1782
