Stainless steel scrap prices in France are increasing in May, after ticking up in April, thanks to high nickel values and in line with all other European countries.
Mills are paying €1,380-1,400/tonne ($1,686-1,711) ex-works for grade 304, up by €60/t ($73) month-on-month. Buyers pay €20-30/t for transport, sources say.
This month, offers for grade 316 are hovering at €1,800-1,830/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 $18,142/t on 18 May.
Natalia Capra France