US domestic API X-42 electric resistance welded (ERW) line pipe spot prices have been under pressure over the past few weeks, amid high US-buyer inventories and decent, but somewhat stagnant, demand levels. As a result, domestic spot prices have fallen about $1.00 cwt. ($22/mt or $20/nt) since last week to the range of $61.50-$62.50 cwt. (1,356-$1,378/mt or $1,230-$1,250/nt) ex-mill. Sources tell SteelOrbis larger orders have garnered prices as low as $60.00 cwt. ($1,323/mt or $1,200/nt) ex-mill, although such discounts are not widespread.
As for imports, even after offer prices from Korea, Taiwan, and India fell by $1.50 cwt. ($33/mt or $30/nt) to $46.00-$47.00 cwt. ($1,014-$1,036/mt or $920-$940/nt) DDP loaded truck in US Gulf ports last week, US-buyer interest has been only moderate. Trader sources tell SteelOrbis that there's a certain level of hesitation driving the US import market at the moment, and until US domestic and import prices show signs of stability, buying activity will likely remain on an as-needed basis.