The Italian long steel market has remained stable with no significant price changes since January. Over the past two weeks, some niche sectors have placed orders, but overall sales of longs and flats are limited to a few truckloads. Buyers are cautious and resisting any upward price adjustments. One merchant bar producer has halted sales and is expected to raise prices by approximately €20 per tonne due to higher energy costs and scrap values.
The current price range for domestic merchant bar is around €690-700 per tonne delivered, including size extras. Demand for sections remains quiet, with contract prices increasing by €10 per tonne compared to last month. The first category of beams is priced at around €800 per tonne delivered for smaller orders. Further price increases are expected in Europe.