European hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices reached their lowest point since January 9, with the Northern European index falling to €565.63 per tonne ex-works on June 27. Despite the continued softness, producers believe the market may have reached its floor, citing rising input costs and unsustainable margins.
Some mills reported workable prices between €550–570 per tonne ex-works, though integrated producers deemed €550 unacceptable. One reroller confirmed a small-volume deal at €570. Central European offers hovered around €590–600, down from €620–640 earlier in June.
Producers attributed the recent price slide to aggressive sales strategies and unrealistic offers earlier in the quarter. With order books now closed for July–August and summer demand expected to remain quiet, some suppliers anticipate a modest rebound in autumn, driven by restocking and reduced import appetite ahead of CBAM implementation.
