A major Brazilian exporter told SteelOrbis that $400/mt FOB remains the reference price for slab exports of the basic commercial grades, in a 10-day period of stability for the first time since an upward trend started at $230/mt FOB in December 2015.
“Prices could increase again in the short term, reflecting links with steel prices in China,” the source said, adding that forecasts are difficult due to uncertainties there.
In April, ArcelorMittal Tubarao exported slab at $235/mt, ThyssenKrupp CSA at $249/mt and Gerdau Acominas at $234/mt, all FOB conditions, with price deals probably closed in February.