US sheet price rally may shift buyers to import market

摘要

As US sheet prices continue its rally that began in late November, overall import levels remain relatively low. The CRU Midwest HR coil price on 8 February was $809 /s ton, up $117 /s.ton from $692 /s.ton at the start of the year. Flat rolled imports in January were at low levels as buyers focused on domestic material for their supply. However, lead times have extended and so too have mill asking prices. US mills are now asking for $900 /s.ton for HR coil.