Market Challenges Weigh on Steel Wire Rod Prices in USA and China, Germany Remains Stable
Market Challenges Weigh on Steel Wire Rod Prices in USA and China, Germany Remains Stable

Market Challenges Weigh on Steel Wire Rod Prices in USA and China, Germany Remains Stable

  • 06-Dec-2024 6:00 PM
  • Journalist: Bob Duffler

During the last week of November USA and China, Steel Wire Rod prices dipped as elevated inventories and low demand from downstream industries. Meanwhile, Germany maintained Steel Wire Rod price stability thanks to balanced supply-demand conditions and consistent production levels. 

The USA Steel Wire Rod market encountered a tough landscape, with prices falling to USD 1,256 per metric ton in Texas, marking a weekly decrease of 0.3%. Additionally, elevated inventory levels and heightened competition from imported materials weighed heavily on domestic producers. Furthermore, weak demand from key sector like construction, combined with global economic uncertainties, further contributed to the subdued market conditions. Moreover, the supply of Steel Wire Rod in the USA remains excessive, with domestic production outpacing demand. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), domestic raw steel production for the week ending in late November totalled 1.655 million net tons, with a capacity utilization rate of 74.5%. Elevated inventory levels have created a surplus, prompting producers to consider scaling back output to better align with the softened demand. Additionally, the influx of cheaper imported materials has intensified competition, eroding market share for domestic producers and further pressuring prices. As a result, supply and demand challenges remain a key factor driving the downward trajectory of prices.

The Germany Steel Wire Rod market-maintained price stability, with prices holding steady at USD 700 per metric ton FD-Ruhr. This stability is attributed to consistent production levels and balanced demand. Domestic producers have successfully met market needs without significant pressure from imports, while steady industrial activity has sustained demand from downstream sectors. Additionally, supply conditions in the German Steel Wire Rod market have remained moderate, with local steelmakers maintaining consistent output. The absence of significant import competition has allowed domestic producers to cater effectively to market requirements. Moreover, Steel Wire Rod consumption in Germany has been steady, supported by ongoing industrial activities. Downstream sector, such as automotive, have shown moderate growth, which has helped sustain the market.

The China Steel Wire Rod market experienced a price drop, indicating a difficult environment. Prices fell by 0.4%, reaching USD 508 per metric ton Ex Shanghai. Moreover, the market's dynamics were influenced by subdued demand from key sectors and a resilient supply chain that maintained robust production levels despite price pressures. Moreover, seasonal factors and economic uncertainties added to the downward momentum, setting the tone for a difficult close to the year. Additionally, China's Steel Wire Rod supply chain demonstrated resilience, with production levels holding steady even as demand weakened. Moreover, demand for Steel Wire Rod in China has softened. The manufacturing index for the steel sector recorded a decline in November, signalling reduced activity in downstream industries. Furthermore, the new order index dropped by 5 percentage points from October, indicating sluggish demand from construction and manufacturing sectors. This tepid demand environment has reinforced the downward pressure on prices, creating a challenging landscape for producers and distributors alike.  

According to ChemAnalyst, the global Steel Wire Rod market is navigating a challenging landscape, with sales in both the US and China expected to decline amidst slowing purchasing activity. Moreover, geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions continue to pressure demand, prompting industries to reassess strategies. Meanwhile, Germany's Steel Wire Rod market remains stable, supported by a balanced supply-demand dynamic.

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