Steel Wire Rod Pricing Assessment
UNSPC: 11101605

  • Commodity Pricing

steel wire rod Markets Covered: 

inIndia
cnChina
usUnited States
gbUnited Kingdom

steel wire rod Markets Covered: 

Global steel wire rod Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

In Q1 2025, steel wire rod prices in China remained stable at $517/MT FOB Shanghai, as the market balanced persistent oversupply with cautious demand from manufacturing and construction sectors. Despite production discipline and some voluntary output cuts by mills, weak export orders and sluggish domestic consumption kept prices from rising. Meanwhile, both the USA and UK experienced price increases, driven by a rebound in infrastructure spending, improved construction activity, and tighter supply chains after a period of destocking and import competition. In the US, renewed buying from downstream sectors and expectations of further demand growth supported firmer offers, while the UK benefited from restocking by distributors and steady demand from automotive and engineering industries. India’s market also saw a moderate uptick, buoyed by government infrastructure initiatives and stable raw material costs. 

Q4 2024  

In Q4 2024, Wire rod prices increased in both China and India. In China, the rise was driven by a slight rebound in demand from the construction and manufacturing sectors, which are key drivers of steel demand in the country. Additionally, the Chinese government’s increased focus on infrastructure development and stimulus measures provided some support to the market. In the USA, domestic wire rod prices had little downside, as mills faced intense competition from aggressive spot import offers, which pressured prices downward. However, demand from the construction and automotive sectors remained stable, and producers tried to maintain price levels through limited price hikes, despite the import competition. 

Q3 2024, Wire rod, Indian domestic prices dropped in the month as producers lowered offers on lukewarm downstream demand in view of the upcoming monsoon season. Prices in the region fell by 4% followed by 11% drop in Chinese market. Steel sector in Chinese market continue to show dull market and buying interest on subdued imports and lower inventory levels. However, on the other hand UK showed minor increase in price for the quarter. 

In Q2 2024 Wire rod market depicting a falling trend, with largely stable market dynamics in India. The market sentiment remained largely steady, reflecting a cautious approach among producers and buyers alike. Prices in China showed significant change of 11% in the quarter with falling demand and influence of seasonal pattern across different sectors.  

In Q1 2024 Wire rod prices price rise in markets like China, the USA, and the European Union. India saw steady demand in wire rod prices as secondary producers raised their offer levels. This increase occurred despite the absence of major changes in the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals, underscoring the impact of domestic supply-demand dynamics on the price trend. US domestic wire rod prices were more or less steady as market participants have started to see a bottom forming in prices as they expected demand to pick up over the next couple of months. 

India steel wire rod Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Q1 2025, wire rod prices in India climbed to $638/MT Ex-Mumbai, marking a robust 3.05% increase over the previous quarter. This upward movement was driven by strong demand from construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors, fueled by government spending and new project launches. Mills operated at high-capacity utilization, and buyers were more active in the market, restocking inventories amid expectations of further price increases. Export opportunities remained favourable, and overall sentiment was upbeat, with the market anticipating sustained growth in the near term. 

In Q4 2024, prices rebounded to $619/MT, a 1.95% increase quarter-on-quarter. The post-monsoon period brought renewed momentum to construction and infrastructure projects, leading to improved domestic demand. The wire drawing and fastener industries also increased their procurement, anticipating higher activity in the coming months. Export demand showed slight improvement, and mills were able to implement moderate price hikes as inventories normalized. The market mood turned positive, with expectations of continued recovery. 

Q3 2024 saw a notable dip in prices to $607/MT, a 3.74% decline from the previous quarter. The monsoon season led to a slowdown in construction and infrastructure projects, which are major consumers of wire rod. Additionally, some stockists reduced their purchases in anticipation of further price corrections, leading to softer demand. Export activity was also subdued as global buyers remained cautious amid fluctuating international prices. Mills responded by offering discounts to move inventory, but overall, the market remained under pressure with limited buying interest. 

During Q2 2024, prices edged slightly higher to $631/MT, up by 0.32% quarter-on-quarter. The onset of the dry season saw a modest pickup in construction activity, which supported wire rod consumption. Demand from the automotive and engineering sectors remained stable, while export opportunities improved marginally due to competitive Indian pricing. Mills benefited from stable input costs, particularly for iron ore and energy, allowing them to hold offers firm. Market sentiment was cautiously optimistic, with participants expecting a steady, if unspectacular, growth trajectory. 

In Q1 2024, India’s steel wire rod prices averaged $629/MT Ex-Mumbai, showing a marginal 0.32% increase from the previous quarter. The market was characterized by steady demand from the construction and wire drawing industries, though overall sentiment was somewhat cautious due to subdued export orders and stable raw material costs. Mills maintained production levels, and inventory positions remained balanced. Buyers continued to make purchases on a need-basis, anticipating only minor price movements, while government infrastructure projects provided a floor to domestic demand. 

steel wire rod Parameters Covered: 

  • Iron ore
  • Carbon and Coke
  • China, India 
  • Wire rod (Nails and fasteners, spring manufacturing, fencing and security electrical conductors) 
  • UK, USA 

steel wire rod Parameters Covered: 

  • Iron ore
  • Carbon and Coke
  • China, India 
  • Wire rod (Nails and fasteners, spring manufacturing, fencing and security electrical conductors) 
  • UK, USA 

Specifications

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

CAS No

HS Code

721399

Molecular Formula

steel wire rod

A wire rod is a type of steel product produced through a process where steel is heated and then passed through rollers to reduce its diameter and shape it into long, slender coils. This process enhances the steel’s tensile strength, making it suitable for further processing into wires, cables, and other products.

Packaging Type

Container

Grades Covered

A512-12.7mm, B500B 12mm, SAE1008-5.5mm, SAE1008-6.5mm

Incoterms Used

FOB Shanghai (China), Ex-Mumbai (India), Ex-Alabama (USA), FD Sheffield (UK)

Synonym

WIRE ROD

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

15-18 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

   Property  Specification 
Material Standard  ASTM A510, JIS G3503, EN 10016, etc. 
Carbon Content (%)  Low Carbon: 0.05 – 0.25%  
Diameter (mm)  5.5 – 16 mm (Common Sizes) 
Tensile Strength (MPa)  400 – 1200 MPa (Depending on Grade) 
Yield Strength (MPa)  250 – 1000 MPa 

Applications

  • Wire Manufacturing: wires used in electrical, telecommunications, and industrial applications.
  • Nails and Fasteners
  • Spring Manufacturing: variety of springs, including tension, compression, and torsion springs.
  • Fencing and Security: create fencing materials, including wire mesh, barbed wire, and welded wire fencing.
  • Electrical Conductors: Steel Steel Wire rods are used to make conductors for power lines.
  • Bicycle and Furniture Manufacturing

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Steel Wire Rod prices

  • Global Supply Chain Disruption (2022): The war in Ukraine and other geopolitical tensions disrupted supply chains, leading to price volatility in various commodities, including STEEL WIRE ROD.
  • Global Economic Downturn (2019-2020): The global economic slowdown, particularly in sectors like steel and automotive, led to reduced demand for Steel Wire rod, resulting in lower prices.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2019-2020): The global pandemic led to a significant decline in demand for STEEL WIRE ROD-intensive industries, such as steelmaking and automotive manufacturing, causing prices to plummet.

These events underscore the STEEL WIRE ROD market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.

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What You’ll Access

  • Capacity Utilization: Understand how close plants are to peak output.
  • Feedstock Flows: Monitor raw material consumption to spot trends and inefficiencies.
  • Technology Benchmarks: See what processes and tools each plant uses.
  • Downtime Tracking: Get instant alerts on unplanned stoppages and production dips.
  • Loss Analysis: Quantify the real impact of downtime on supply.
  • New Facilities Tracker: Stay ahead of capacity expansions and plant rollouts.

Why It Matters
One hour of unplanned downtime can cost thousands—or more. We give you the intelligence to spot it, solve it, and prevent it.

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global steel wire rod price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the steel wire rod market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence steel wire rod prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely steel wire rod market data.

Track PriceWatch's steel wire rod price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major STEEL WIRE ROD production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire STEEL WIRE ROD supply chain, from raw material availability to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact STEEL WIRE ROD prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on STEEL WIRE ROD production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the APAC coasts. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks.
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, packaging, to predict shifts in STEEL WIRE ROD demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global STEEL WIRE ROD production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately.
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming STEEL WIRE ROD production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides an in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments.
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global STEEL WIRE ROD pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast STEEL WIRE ROD prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power.
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most-likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations.
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable STEEL WIRE ROD pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

CAS No

HS Code

721399

Molecular Formula

steel wire rod

A wire rod is a type of steel product produced through a process where steel is heated and then passed through rollers to reduce its diameter and shape it into long, slender coils. This process enhances the steel’s tensile strength, making it suitable for further processing into wires, cables, and other products.

Packaging Type

Container

Grades Covered

A512-12.7mm, B500B 12mm, SAE1008-5.5mm, SAE1008-6.5mm

Incoterms Used

FOB Shanghai (China), Ex-Mumbai (India), Ex-Alabama (USA), FD Sheffield (UK)

Synonym

WIRE ROD

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

15-18 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

   Property  Specification 
Material Standard  ASTM A510, JIS G3503, EN 10016, etc. 
Carbon Content (%)  Low Carbon: 0.05 – 0.25%  
Diameter (mm)  5.5 – 16 mm (Common Sizes) 
Tensile Strength (MPa)  400 – 1200 MPa (Depending on Grade) 
Yield Strength (MPa)  250 – 1000 MPa 

Applications

  • Wire Manufacturing: wires used in electrical, telecommunications, and industrial applications.
  • Nails and Fasteners
  • Spring Manufacturing: variety of springs, including tension, compression, and torsion springs.
  • Fencing and Security: create fencing materials, including wire mesh, barbed wire, and welded wire fencing.
  • Electrical Conductors: Steel Steel Wire rods are used to make conductors for power lines.
  • Bicycle and Furniture Manufacturing
Steel Wire Rod price provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for steel wire rod. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The pricing of Steel Wire rod is influenced by several key factors, including:
1. Raw Material Costs
• Iron Ore & Scrap Prices – The cost of raw materials like iron ore and steel scrap directly affects Steel Wire rod prices.
• Alloying Elements – Prices of elements like carbon, manganese, and chromium impact cost.
2. Supply & Demand
• Construction & Infrastructure Projects – High demand from the construction sector raises prices.
• Automobile & Manufacturing Industry – Increased use in fasteners, springs, and cables affects demand.
3. Production Costs
• Energy Costs – Electricity and fuel costs in steel mills influence final pricing.
• Labor & Operational Costs – Wages and overheads impact production expenses.
4. Market Conditions & Trade Policies
• Import/Export Tariffs & Duties – Trade restrictions and tariffs can raise or lower prices.
• Government Regulations & Policies – Environmental policies and steel industry regulations impact costs.
5. Currency Exchange Rates
• Since steel is traded globally, fluctuations in currency values affect import/export pricing.
6. Logistics & Transportation
• Shipping Costs – Freight rates and fuel prices impact delivery expenses.
• Geographical Proximity to Mills – Distance from production sites affects final cost.
7. Economic Conditions
• Inflation & Interest Rates – Economic downturns or growth affect steel consumption.
• Global Market Trends – Prices are influenced by steel production trends in China, India, and other major producers.

Steel Wire rod prices and inflation are closely linked, as fluctuations in steel prices can influence overall inflation through cost-push effects in industries like construction, automotive, and manufacturing. Rising raw material costs, energy prices, and transportation expenses contribute to higher Steel Wire rod prices, which, in turn, increase production costs for end-use sectors, leading to broader inflationary pressures. Conversely, high inflation can drive up input costs, including labor and logistics, further escalating steel Steel Wire rod prices. Central bank policies, interest rates, and currency fluctuations also play a role in shaping this relationship by affecting both production costs and demand dynamics.