MEPS on Emerging Steel Markets

Brazilian distributors have denounced the latest offers from factories for higher prices given the current trading climate. As a result, they forecast a rise in the tonnage of imports.

The business climate in the Russian Federation remains challenging, according to MEPS analysts. Trade organizations were divided over the prospects for domestic metallurgical quotations in the period from September to October.

The trading environment remains unchanged in India. Inventories allow you to defer purchases until the pricing scenario becomes more transparent. There is currently little appetite for buying on the part of construction firms. Importers remain highly critical of the government's decision to renew its minimum import price mandates and instigate a new time frame for protective duties.

Chinese traders plan to continue their cautious buying strategies next month, despite the traditionally peak season for steel consumption. Most emphasize that the recent upward trend in domestic prices does not reflect real demand, and support from export clients is mixed.

Ukrainian metallurgists are struggling to adjust to current domestic trade. Industrial shipments in August were weaker than forecast, particularly for pipes and pipelines.

In Turkey, metallurgists are unable to ensure that prices continue to rise, despite a speculative rebound in the cost of ferrous scrap and semi-finished products. End-user groups only purchase material for essential needs.


Demand for structural steel in the UAE remains subdued. Traders plan to keep a minimum stock during this period. Demand in South Africa has weakened and shows no signs of improvement in the near future. End users remain adamant as local price quotes are too high.