The Chinese welded pipe market has been fairly quiet over the past two weeks. Foreign buyers have become even more careful about concluding purchases, while domestic demand is weakening as the traditional off-peak consumption season is approaching. Prices for Chinese welded pipes have in general still remained mostly unchanged from two weeks ago, despite some signs of weakening. However, with the weather turning colder, construction will become increasingly difficult, and, as a result, demand for welded pipes will weaken and prices may face downside pressure. Market players do not expect to see any significant welded pipe price revival before the arrival of next spring.
Current offers of locally produced 2"-6" welded pipes of grade B as per ASTM A53, are being given to the Chinese domestic market at an average of RMB 4,200-4,300/mt ($670-686/mt) ex-works. These local market welded pipe prices include 17 percent VAT. Traders in Shanghai are offering Q215-Q235 welded pipes made to GB/T3091 at around RMB 3,900-4,100/mt ($622-654/mt) ex-warehouse.
Current export prices of welded pipes from large mills, 2"-10" grade B according to ASTM A53, have stayed at around $680-750/mt FOB on actual weight basis.