The Romanian long steel market has observed price swings following the lengthy Christmas and New Year's holidays. Romanian long retailers have upped their prices this week, while the lone domestic producer, Beltrame Donalam, has sought to maintain its pricing at the same levels as two weeks earlier while also providing discounts to serious buyers.
Currently, the domestic origin rebar price range in Romania is at €720-725/mt ex-warehouse, the same as it was two weeks ago. Retail rebar prices, on the other hand, have risen by €35-40/mt compared to two weeks ago, to €715-725/mt ex-warehouse.
Similarly, retail prices for wire rod in Romania have climbed to €720-730/mt ex-warehouse, up from €695-710/mt ex-warehouse in previous weeks.
Meanwhile, many retailers have also noted that, despite price hikes, economic and financial issues still exist and, although demand has slightly improved, it is still at low levels.
“The market has increased somewhat, but demand has not reached the targeted level. We are attempting to melt stocks, but some firms are attempting to sell at a higher price in order to sustain future imports,” a trader told SteelOrbis.
Considering the unfavorable causes mentioned, many traders are still hesitating to import due to weak demand and their stocks.
However, according to sources this week, there have been some import offers. Italy is offering rebar and wire rod at €710/mt CFR and €690-740/mt CFR, respectively, while Moldova is offering rebar and wire rod at €690-700/mt and €715-730/mt respectively, delivered to Romania. Moreover, Egypt is offering rebar at €645-660/mt CFR and Bulgaria is offering rebar at €730/mt CPT, whereas Greece’s prices for rebar and wire rod stand at €715-720/mt CFR and €745-750/mt CFR, respectively.