NPI Nickel Content Falls, Discounts Widen as Steel Mills Lower Procurement Standards

On April 23, 2026, Chinese Taiwan’s stainless steel wire rod exports surged 66% MoM to 10,230 tons, hitting a 15-month high. In India, a top producer launched a retail pilot for stainless steel rebars targeting infrastructure. Prices remain stable but firm; Indonesian 304 CRC FOB held at $2,112.5/mt, supported by tight nickel ore supply under the new HPM formula. While Asian buyers remain cautious, European mills are pushing for HRC price hikes of EUR 50-70/mt to offset rising procurement expenses, signaling a robust cost-driven floor for global stainless steel prices.

In March 2026, Chinese Taiwan’s stainless steel wire rod trade saw a robust recovery. Imports rose 38.6% month-on-month to approximately 1,200 tons, the highest level in over a year. Exports jumped 66.2% to about 10,200 tons, crossing the 10,000-ton threshold for the first time since last September. This volume growth was matched by rising prices, with export values hitting a 10-month high. The synchronized growth in both volume and price marks a significant shift from previous market volatility, signaling an overall improvement in business conditions.

A leading Indian stainless steel producer has launched a pilot program in Punjab, marking its first entry into the stainless steel rebar retail segment. The initiative aims to provide high-performance construction solutions directly to end-users. These rebars feature superior corrosion resistance, high strength, and durability, making them ideal for critical infrastructure such as coastal developments, metro projects, and premium real estate.