In the European steel market, hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices have remained stable, with figures hovering between €620-650 per tonne ex-works in Northern Europe. Despite a lull in trading activity due to the upcoming summer holidays and pending long-term contract negotiations, steel manufacturers are contemplating an increase in prices for September deliveries. The subdued spot market trading is attributed to buyers’ anticipation of new customs statistics under the EU’s revised safeguard system, which will determine the volume of HRC that can be customs cleared for the third quarter. Amidst slow demand and an oversupply, domestic HRC prices are facing downward pressure, intensifying competition among steel service centers and distributors. With order books described as weak and lead times estimated at five to six weeks, suppliers are reluctant to offer significant discounts in the spot market. However, for September delivery, mills are planning to implement increases of €20-30 per tonne, with official announcements expected by the end of July.