In July and August 2016, the US imported 45,231 mt (census data) and 60,201 mt (census data) of standard pipe, respectively, from global sources. Monthly import tonnages have since spiked.
In July and August 2017, the US imported 117,006 mt (census data) and 88,375 mt (preliminary census data) of standard pipe from global sources. And while US standard pipe mills are among US producers who continue to drum loudly about the need for swift and heavy action against imports, the announcement by US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross that no action would be taken with regard to the Section 232 investigation until tax reform is achieved virtually ensures the year-on-year uptick in standard pipe imports will continue.
In terms of pricing, domestic spot market prices for Grade A ERW BPE continue to remain stable, at $46-$48 cwt. ($1014-$1058/mt or $920-$960/nt), ex-mill, sources note although market players say they’ll continue to keep a close watch on scrap and hot rolled coil prices, as any downticks in US scrap and HRC pricing could lead to increased price flexibility within the standard pipe market.