Local Turkish welded pipe prices are stable since last week, while discounts are still possible according to some sources. Producers have left their prices unchanged as the hot rolled coil (HRC) offers in Turkey have remained stable at high levels for now. The expectations, however, are mainly negative and buyers have been exerting pressure on suppliers’ offer levels.
Currently, ex-Turkey welded pipe prices are at $530-540/mt FOB for March shipments. In the domestic market, the product is available for purchase at the same price range on ex-works basis. SteelOrbis has learned. According to market sources, discounts of up to $15/mt are possible depending on the order size.
While HR feedstock prices in Turkey remain largely stable at $510-520/mt ex-works and above, the sentiment in the welded pipe sector is rather negative. The downtrend in the scrap sector and the uncertainty regarding the impact of China on the market amid the virus outbreak have caused pipe buyers to wait. Today, February 3, on the first official working day after the holiday, China has seen a significant drop in prices, for iron ore and HRC in particular. As a result, pipe customers prefer to watch the developing situation and to restock only to cover urgent needs, SteelOrbis understands.
** Prices are given for ERW pipes and hollow sections with 2-4 mm wall thickness made from HRC of S235 grade as per EN 10219, on theoretical weight basis.