In spite of the activity which started to be observed last week in the Turkish and Middle Eastern markets, prices have moved on a neutral trend in most of the European rebar markets.
On the southern European side, it is seen that Italian producers have increased their offers both for domestic and export markets. Italian producers have reacted positively to the price hikes applied by Turkish mills, with whom they compete in the North African market in particular. Rebar prices have been trending sideways in Spain and Portugal. On the other hand, in Greece mills have abstained from giving offers. Especially on the back of the increased export offers given by the Italian mills to Greece, Greek mills may also raise their price levels this week.
As for the eastern European market, an overall silence has weighed upon the market over the past week. Prices have generally shown no change in the eastern European market. However, an increase has been observed in import offers received by eastern Europeans. This week new offers may be seen from local mills in this region, given the price hikes seen in other markets.
Another market which has shown an uptick in prices is the UK, where mills have increased their prices by £20/mt ($29/mt). Market players have indicated that the main reason behind this increase is the rise observed in the global scrap markets. However, difficulties continue to be seen in terms of demand.
In general, the increases in activity levels and prices seen in the Turkish rebar market have not found a reflection on the European side. No significant improvement has been seen in demand in Europe. Most bookings from Europe have continued to be concluded on delivery by truck basis to nearby regions.