Import hot rolled coil (HRC) prices in Greece have registered increases of $20-25/mt as compared to late December, though the new price levels have failed to gain acceptance in the market amid weak demand. Demand in the Greek flat steel market, which is still struggling with cash problems, is only likely to show some improvement if ongoing financial problems are overcome.
HRC import offers from Ukraine to Greece are now standing at $560-565/mt FOB for February production, while ex-Russia HRC offers are at $585-600/mt FOB for February output. In addition Egyptian HRC offers for March rolling to the country are at $620/mt FOB, while Turkish offers stand at $620-630/mt FOB for March production. All the offers above exclude VAT and are for advance payments.