In recent weeks, the Italian steel market has shown an unexpected recovery due to the tightening of trade and economic protectionist measures. Interest in the purchase has significantly revived with new dynamics from both end users and service centers specializing in carbon flat products, according to a November 6 market report from Assofermet, an association representing Italian companies involved in the trade, distribution and processing of steel, scrap and non-ferrous metals.
The increase was mainly driven by concerns about higher duties and the introduction of costs related to the Carbon Boundary Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), as well as concerns about stricter quotas on raw materials imports. Therefore, many operators have postponed their purchases to the coming months in order to hedge the price increases already announced by European factories. This behavior contributed to a temporary improvement in supplies in October, although the beginning of November was marked by a slowdown in demand and a renewed sense of caution.
Overall, the situation remains difficult. While rising prices support manufacturers' margins, they also risk undermining the competitiveness of the European manufacturing industry - especially if trade barriers are not extended to finished or steel-intensive products. Assofermet warns that without coordinated action at the EU level, there is a real risk of structural damage.
