French HRC Steel prices remain flat: MEPS

FRANCE September 25 2014 6:08 PM

 

PARIS (Scrap Register): In France, hot rolled coil prices are unchanged month-on-month, said MEPS Internationalin a research note. Negotiations are ongoing in many instances but buyers remain unsure that the higher price can be implemented.

 

According to MEPS, hot rolled plate basis figures are on the rise, following a significant reduction in volumes offered. German customers have been ordering large quantities in France, reacting to the slab shortages in Poland. This has led to expanding delivery lead times of nine to ten weeks. 

 

Selling values, for cold rolled coil, are the same as those published in their July issue. Activity remains subdued.

 

The French vehicle manufacturers are faring slightly better than earlier in the year, which could help producers to lift coated steel prices. Consumption, in general, is tepid. 

 

Prices for drawing rod are at the level reported two months ago. Those for the mesh quality are also the same as in July.

 

Producers are looking for an advance of €10/20 per tonne for Category 1 sections. This was still under negotiation at the time of MEPS research as many distributors still have sufficient stocks. The rise will be easier to secure on the larger sizes.

 

Construction activity is weak. Industry participants are still waiting for the government to implement measures to boost private construction. Public infrastructure is faring better. Producers have gained a modest, cost-driven price hike for rebar. 

 

Merchant bar effective values are up through the application of the new size extras. There has been no revival in sales volumes, MEPS concluded.