While welded pipe producers in Turkey increased their local and export prices before the holidays, their price levels are expected to stabilize for now unless there is a significant change in feedstock prices. Demand has been limited.
Turkish welded pipe export prices have increased by $10/mt over the past two weeks to $530-540/mt FOB, with most offers reported for January shipments. However, $10/mt discounts are granted for sizeable orders, SteelOrbis understands. Sources say export demand for pipes has been slow in the EU specifically due to the holiday period. In addition, there are some concerns regarding more of the quota for welded pipes being used up, though the remaining quota should be sizeable enough for the coming couple of months. In addition, sales to the Middle East have also been slow. “Buyers based in the Middle East show lower interest and their bids are below Turkey’s offers,” a source said.
In the local market, Turkey’s welded pipe prices have increased by $5-20/mt over the past two weeks and are currently standing as the same level as export offers. Domestic demand has been limited partly by weather conditions. Overall, welded pipe prices in Turkey are expected to stabilize for now unless there is some significant change in the hot rolled coil segment.
** 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.