French stainless scrap increases slightly

Stainless steel scrap prices in France are increasing slightly in April, but only for certain categories due to see-sawing nickel prices.

The market is however said to be quiet as uncertainty persists due to Covid-19 related restrictions. Stainless flat and tubular products are in high demand, and the coil shortage continues with lead times from mills stretching through September.

Mills are paying €1,300-1,320/t ($1,540-1,563) ex-works for grade 304, up by €20/t ($23) month-on-month. Buyers pay €20-30/t for transport, sources say.

This month, offers for grade 316 are hovering at €1,600-1,650/t ex-works on average. Like last month, this grade is in tight supply and is sold quickly, market participants tell Kallanish.

Meanwhile, nickel prices for cash buyers were at $16,349/t on 5 March and reached $16,001/t on 1 April.

Natalia Capra France