This week in the Turkish hollow section market, producers have attempted to push prices higher, supported by the recent strength of scrap prices and price hike attempts by HRC producers, driven by rising input costs and some improvement in export sales. However, following several weeks of broadly stable pricing, these upward attempts have so far met with limited acceptance. Despite higher list prices being quoted, workable transaction levels have largely remained close to previous weeks, as demand continues to fall short of expectations. Market sources note that with Ramadan approaching, buying activity is expected to slow further, making it increasingly difficult for higher price levels to be absorbed by the market.
Against the above backdrop, domestic hollow section prices have increased week on week, with quoted levels reported at $625-640/mt ex-works, up from $620-630/mt ex-works in the previous week. Nevertheless, amid persistently sluggish demand, some producers have continued to show flexibility for serious buyers and larger-volume orders, with discounted offers heard at around $610-630/mt ex-works.
In the export segment, price indications have also edged higher, with most offers assessed at $620-630/mt FOB, up from $610-620/mt FOB previously. However, market sources indicate that larger mills have maintained a more competitive pricing approach, with workable offers reported at around $600/mt FOB.
