[SMM Stainless Steel Flash] Vietnam's Stainless Steel Imports to Taiwan, China Surge, Triggering New AD Investigation

APNI reported that Indonesia's domestic smelters consumed 120.6 million wmt of nickel ore during January–June 2026, equivalent to 46.2% of the 2026 RKAB quota of 260–270 million wmt, highlighting weaker downstream demand ahead of the 31 July RKAB revision deadline. At the same time, according to SMM, as the rainy season approaches in late Q3 and Q4, mining operations and ore transportation are expected to face disruptions, making it increasingly difficult for producers to fully utilize their RKAB allocations. Even if the quota is moderately increased to 280–300 million wmt, actual production may still fall short of the approved volume due to weather-related constraints. Furthermore, integrated smelters may still face ore supply deficits with limited alternative sources, as imports from the Philippines are expected to decline toward the end of the year. Therefore, the overall market outlook remains neutral to slightly bullish, depending on the outcome of the RKAB approvals, weather conditions, and import volumes.

Finland-based stainless steel producer Outokumpu has awarded Primetals Technologies an order to upgrade a ladle treatment stand at its Calvert, Alabama plant to a 180mt twin ladle furnace, with startup scheduled for March 2028. Replacing equipment commissioned in 2012, the new furnace will provide electrical heating following the AOD converter, improving temperature control, process flexibility, and productivity while reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint, utilizing the existing plant layout and foundations. The scope covers mechanical and electrical equipment, automated argon lancing, hydraulic systems, Level 1 automation, and the Primetals Melt Expert electrode control system. Outokumpu's Calvert facility currently melts up to 100% stainless steel scrap in a 160mt electric arc furnace before processing in a 180mt AOD converter.