In May 2025, the global hot-rolled coil (HRC) market saw a widespread decline in prices across Europe, the US, and China. The downturn was driven by seasonal factors, trade uncertainty, and weak demand, leaving the market struggling to maintain stability, as GMK Center reported.

European HRC prices continued their downward trend, with weak demand and cheaper imports exerting pressure. Prices in Western Europe fell by 3% to €640 per ton, while Italy saw the steepest drop, declining by 6.3% to €595 per ton. Import offers in Southern Europe reached their lowest level since 2020 at €515 per ton. Mills attempted to stabilize prices, but market participants hesitated to commit to purchases.

In the US, HRC prices dropped by 7.1% to $885 per ton, influenced by falling scrap prices, weak demand, and hesitant buying activity after earlier panic purchases. Producers offered discounts, while import prices remained below $800 per ton.

China also faced price pressure, with a decline of 1.1% to $465 per ton, marking the lowest levels since July 2020. Weak export demand and trade concerns contributed to instability, with expectations of further downward pressure in June due to seasonal slowdowns and uncertain market conditions.