EU hot-rolled coil import prices edged lower in early July, but buying interest remains subdued. Offers from mills ranged widely—some as low as €540–550 per tonne ex-works Ruhr, while others held firm at €580. This reflects intense competition as producers try to fill summer order books.
Platts assessed imported HRC at €470 per tonne CIF South Europe and Antwerp, down €5–10 on the day. Domestic prices stayed stable at €550 per tonne ex-works Ruhr and €530 in Italy. Despite the narrowing gap between import and domestic prices, traders remain cautious due to safeguard risks and the upcoming CBAM legislation.
Some market participants expect a short-term uptick in imports before CBAM reporting requirements take effect in 2026, but others see current conditions as too risky. Mills are under pressure, and sentiment across the flat steel market remains largely negative amid the summer lull.
