Brazilian producers remain negotiating wire rod of the mesh grade for export at $620/mt, FOB conditions, the same price as last week, a local exporter told SteelOrbis.
According to the source, prices are higher than those seen in the international markets, as exports are being directed to Latin American countries, favored by competitive logistics.
Fresh deals remain reflecting uncertainties due to the 25 percent tax on steel imports recently announced by the US government. A second source mentioned reports of far lower prices being negotiated for wire rod exports to the US.
In February, Gerdau exported wire rod at $579/mt, while ArcelorMittal exported at $618/mt, both FOB conditions, with price deals probably closed in December 2017.