SMM HRC Weekly: Supply Pressure Eases, Social Inventory Declines Amid Steel Mill Maintenance

[SMM HRC Weekly Balance & Social Inventory Overview] Supply Pressure Eases Significantly, Social Inventory Finally Declines!

With environmental protection measures combined with new maintenance plans at some steel mills, HRC production saw a noticeable reduction. During this period, futures fluctuated downward, and the market mainly adopted a purchasing-as-needed approach. Supply remained weak, and social inventory declined slightly MoM. Looking ahead, additional maintenance plans are expected at steel mills, keeping supply pressure relatively small in the short term. After the Two Sessions, end-use demand is expected to steadily recover, and nationwide social inventory is anticipated to continue declining in the short term.