As of April 25, in China's three main steel markets, i.e., Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing, the average price of 20# (GB/T8162-1999) grade 108 mm x 4.5 mm seamless pipe was at $722/mt, with 20# (GB/T8163-1999) grade 219 mm x 6 mm seamless pipe at $754/mt. Meanwhile, on the same date, Q195-215 grade 48 mm x 3.25 mm welded pipe and Q215-235 grade 114 mm x 3.75 mm welded pipe prices in the above markets were standing at $635/mt and $638/mt. All the above prices include 17 percent VAT.
China's seamless pipe market moved on a stable trend in the past week. Weakness has been observed in billet prices, affecting producers' confidence about the possibility of a rebound in seamless pipe prices. The trading volume in the market was unchanged. Traders have high-cost inventory in hand at present and are hoping mills will raise their prices and make it easier for them to sell their materials. It is thought that seamless pipe prices in China may see a small rise during the coming week.
China's domestic welded pipe market moved down slightly during the past week. although local steel strip prices have declined by a larger margin. A certain improvement in demand from the construction sector has contributed to the smaller decline in welded pipe prices as compared to strip prices. It is thought that a possible rebound in steel strip prices in the coming period could provide some support for welded pipe prices. For the coming week, Chinese domestic welded pipe prices may just see small-scale fluctuations.