Northern European steel mills and stockists are expressing concerns that a significant recovery in coil prices is unlikely for the remainder of 2025. According to a market analysis from MEPS International, the primary factor preventing an upward price trend is the persistent uncertainty surrounding future demand. While some have hoped that the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) might provide a stimulus, market participants fear that underlying demand is not strong enough to support a price increase. This sentiment is widespread, and it has led to mills and buyers holding back on large-scale commitments. The lack of robust end-user demand is hindering the ability of producers to push for higher prices, despite some potential for cost-push factors from regulatory changes. The prevailing market mood suggests a "soft-sideways" trend, where prices remain relatively flat, a pattern that has been observed in sheet and plate products since May. This stagnation is forcing companies to operate with caution and focus on a day-to-day basis, rather than on long-term price projections. The market is waiting for a clear signal of demand recovery, which has yet to materialize.