The situation in the US domestic and import API X-52 line pipe markets largely mirror the situation in weeks past, as high inventory levels and unexciting order activity continue to plague the energy pipe sector.
“It has all been more of the same,” a source said. “Prices are soft as we search for the bottom. The market still needs to churn through inventories. There is nothing exciting about it, and we wish it would take a turn for the better, sooner than later, but might be this way through summer, unfortunately.”
In terms of pricing, the average spot market price for US domestic API X-52 line pipe is still holding at $60-$63 cwt. ($1,323-$1,389/mt or $1,200-$1,260/nt), ex-mill, although as in previous weeks, deals at the service center level are widely available. Mexico import API X-52 line pipe pricing is also stable week-over-week, and continues to be sold at the same range as domestic ex-mill pricing, FOB Texas.