Because of the slack demand and surplus supply, the European heavy plate market remains weak now and judging from the transaction record, it is estimated that the market would not recover until the third quarter. At present, the heavy plate is quoted at €530~€545/ton in Northern Europe. The Chinese mills offer US$570/ton FOB now, plus the freight, the price is almost on the same level with European local level, which means no competitiveness compared to the European counterparts now. Although the stock level was low, with the weak demand, most buyers are still holding an attitude to wait and see. It is estimated that in a short time, the European heavy plate price would probably go down further slightly.
Source:
http://www.yieh.com/2.2.01.01stainlesssteelnews.aspx?no=63745&division=A2
