Import scrap prices in Bangladesh have remained largely stable over the past two weeks, but sentiment remains muted as construction activity has slowed and no new government projects have emerged. Trading volumes have been thin, with major mills showing little interest in fresh scrap bookings.
Offers for shredded scrap from EU have been voiced at $370/mt CFR, mainly the same as wo weeks ago. Besides, offers for ex-Australia HMS I/II 80:20 have been voiced at $340-342/mt CFR, with a few deals reported to have been signed at these levels.
Besides, while offers for ex-Malaysia PNS scrap have settled at $380-385/mt CFR, the same as two weeks ago. Bangladeshi customers’ bids have been voiced at not higher than $370-375/mt CFR levels. Offers for ex-Singapore PNS scrap have been reported at $378-380/mt CFR.
In the bulk segment, offers for ex-US HMS scrap have been voiced at around $355/mt CFR, though a deal price has been reported at $352/mt CFR, while new bids have been heard at $345/mt CFR, according to sources. Besides, indicative offers for ex-Japan H2 scrap have settled at $342-345/mt CFR, mainly the same as two weeks ago.
According to sources, producers in Bangladesh have continued to operate well below capacity, with utilization rates reported at under 50 percent, reflecting the broader slowdown in demand. Ship recycling activity has also been restrained, and buyers remain cautious about taking bulk cargoes. Market participants pointed to ongoing economic challenges and the absence of new infrastructure investments as key reasons behind the subdued outlook.
“With no clear demand drivers in sight and investors hesitating to commit, Bangladesh’s steel sector is expected to remain under pressure, despite the current price stability,” a market insider told SteelOrbis.