Italian rebar prices are beginning to rise following an increase attempt by domestic steelmakers in mid-October.
This week, mills are quoting at around €270/tonne ($314/t) base ex-works, with no offers accepted at below €260/t. One producer says that further increases may be introduced in November.
Some material shortages are being reported as certain steelmakers have not been operating at full capacity in recent weeks. While many buyers continue to adopt a wait-and-see approach, one tells Kallanish he is purchasing small volumes at €260/t base ex-works, adding that he doubts the sustainability of the current price increases.
A construction company notes that activity has slowed compared with June and July, though projects are still ongoing. A distributor reports some demand for rebar and mesh this month. Meanwhile, several French distributors in the south are complaining about a strong Italian presence, with material being offered at lower prices than domestic suppliers.
Recent domestic transactions are reported at around €250-260/t base. Including size extras of €260-270/t, effective prices are in the range of €520-530/t ex-works. Mesh prices are also trending upwards, averaging at €250-260/t base ex-works, excluding an additional €300/t in size extras.
Natalia Capra France
