HRC Futures Rangebound, Auto and Real Estate Data Show Mixed Signals Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Published: Mar 16, 2026 16:54

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A review of the data showed that auto production and sales in China remained at low levels, while exports stayed resilient. Excavators retreated from highs, and overall downstream performance was moderate. In terms of supply, HRC production was expected to rebound this week, but the pressure remained moderate. On exports, freight rates surged rapidly due to geopolitical conflicts, and most clients outside China stayed on the sidelines. Exporters in China reported mediocre order-taking for sheets & plates. Overall, HRC fundamentals were relatively stable in the short term, and prices would still mainly move sideways with the cost side.

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