With the week ending on 31^st January, the global Cold Rolled Sheet market presents a varied outlook, with the U.S., Germany, and China experiencing distinct market forces shaping their pricing dynamics. While the U.S. market sees downward price adjustments due to trade tariffs, Germany grapples with escalating energy costs impacting production, and China maintains a stable supply-demand balance that keeps prices unchanged.

The U.S. Cold Rolled Sheet market has witnessed a price decline, largely influenced by fluctuations in supply-chain dynamics. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), raw steel production for the latest week stood at 1.656 million net tons, reflecting a modest increase from 1.641 million net tons the previous week. This upward trend indicates a rise in supply levels, creating downward pressure on prices.

However, despite increased domestic production, the market faces significant policy-driven uncertainty. The U.S. government, under President Trump, has introduced new tariffs—25% on imports from Canada and Mexico and 10% on Chinese imports. While these tariffs are intended to protect domestic producers, they are also raising concerns about escalating trade tensions, potentially disrupting established supply chains and limiting export opportunities. As a result, the market is seeing a cautious approach from buyers, leading to softer pricing for Cold Rolled Sheet.

In contrast, the Cold Rolled Sheet market in Germany has recorded a price increase, primarily due to supply-side disruptions linked to soaring energy costs. The supply landscape has been notably affected by the shutdown of the electric arc furnace (EAF) at Georgsmarienhütte Gruppe’s (GMH) Osnabrück plant, following an unprecedented surge in electricity prices. This move underscores the growing pressure on steelmakers as they grapple with rising operational costs, prompting many to seek alternative energy sources and enhanced production efficiencies to remain competitive.

Despite these production challenges, demand for Cold Rolled Sheet remains resilient. Industrial activity across various sectors—particularly in automotive and construction—continues to support steady consumption, keeping market momentum intact. Additionally, reduced reliance on imports has strengthened domestic supply chains, reinforcing the upward price movement in Germany’s Cold Rolled Sheet market.

Meanwhile, China’s Cold Rolled Sheet market remains stable, reflecting a well-balanced supply-demand environment. Domestic steelmakers have maintained steady production output, ensuring that supply levels align with domestic consumption needs. The absence of significant import pressures has further contributed to this stability, as domestic producers continue to meet demand effectively without external reliance.

On the demand front, the China Cold Rolled Sheet market benefits from sustained industrial activity, which continues to exhibit moderate growth across multiple sectors. Overall demand remains balanced, preventing any drastic market fluctuations. This stability in both supply and demand dynamics has kept Cold Rolled Sheet prices unchanged, offering a steady outlook.

According to ChemAnalyst, prices for Cold Rolled Sheet in the USA and Germany are expected to rise in the near term due to ongoing supply chain disruptions. In contrast, prices for Cold Rolled Sheet in China are anticipated to stabilize, reflecting a balance between supply and demand.