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Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (hr) Coil Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 30102206
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Historical Data Since 2015
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  • Commodity Pricing

stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil Price Trends by Country

cnChina
deGermany
usUnited States
inIndia

Global stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

SS HR Coil Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the global SS HR Coil market showed a mixed performance, with select regions witnessing mild strength while others remained constrained by weak demand and competitive supply conditions. Steady industrial activity in some markets provided modest support, but overcapacity and subdued buying interest limited price momentum overall. Stable raw material trends and controlled production kept volatility low, while restocking during September provided limited relief. Overall, the global market maintained a cautiously stable tone heading into the final quarter of the year.

Germany

SS HR Coil Domestic prices FD- Willich, Germany, Grade- 304-3mm.

The price trend of Stainless Steel Hot Rolled Coil in Germany dropped by 1.5% in Q3 2025, as weaker offtake from construction and automotive segments combined with competitive imports from European mills pressured local pricing. Domestic producers operated at steady utilization rates, but market activity remained subdued due to high input costs and limited export opportunities.

End-user consumption did not show significant improvement throughout the quarter, dampening sentiment. However, SS HR Coil prices in Germany increased slightly by 0.13% in September 2025, supported by short-term replenishment orders from distributors and modest restocking from industrial processors, although overall demand remained restrained.

USA

SS HR Coil Domestic prices EX Alabama, USA, Grade- 304-3mm.

The price trend of Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (HR) Coil in the USA rose by 1.10% in Q3 2025, supported by steady demand from energy, construction, and manufacturing sectors. Tight domestic supply conditions, owing to scheduled maintenance at select mills, contributed to upward pressure on prices. Market sentiment was stable throughout the quarter, with end-users maintaining moderate procurement levels to meet ongoing project requirements.

However, SS HR Coil prices in the USA edged up marginally by 0.03% in September 2025, reflecting balanced market dynamics as supply and demand remained well-aligned, though buyers remained cautious amid uncertain third-quarter economic data.

China

SS HR Coil Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade- 304-3mm.

In Q3 2025, the price trend of stainless-steel hot rolled coil in China decreased by 1.09% as industrial production has been lower than expected while overall demand from the downstream fabrication and machinery sectors has been weakening. Domestic excess capacity continued to suppress prices in China, with steady supply levels amid very slow consumption. The level of export orders also fell, as other Asian suppliers began to gain business.

Although input costs remained stable and provided little support for the market, the tone of the market was quite muted. Prices of stainless-steel hot rolled coil in China fell 0.4% in September 2025, after seasonal demand fell back while buyers have been cautious about restocking and not willing to place larger orders amid uncertainty about demand in the short-term.

India

SS HR Coil Domestic prices EX-Mumbai, India, Grade- 304-3mm.

According to PriceWatch, the price trend for SS HR Coil in India fell by 1% during Q3 2025, influenced by reduced consumption from engineering and infrastructure sectors. Ample domestic supply contributed to the price declines, particularly since imports from Asian steelmakers continued to be available to domestic mills. Import levels kept the pricing environment competitive, and mills had to cut offer prices to ensure they remained competitive.

While raw material prices remained stable, they have been unable to improve end-user demand. However, prices for SS HR Coil in India ticked up by 0.54% in September 2025, as the purchasing sentiment improved with the impending festive season demand and healthy restocking activity. Continuing demand by downstream fabricators produced some degree of stability.

Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (HR) Coil Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, stainless steel hot rolled (HR) coil prices in China declined from $1,803 per metric tonne in Q1 to $1,794 per metric tonne in Q2, a 0.5% decrease. This marginal drop reflects the ongoing challenges of oversupply, subdued demand in construction and automotive sectors, and persistent export headwinds. Chinese mills maintained high production levels to protect market share, even as downstream activity remained weak and trade tensions limited export opportunities.

Fluctuations in nickel prices and global economic uncertainty further dampened sentiment, resulting in cautious purchasing by both domestic and overseas buyers. Despite some cost support from raw materials, the overall market trend remained slightly bearish as supply continued to outpace demand. 

In Germany, stainless steel HR coil prices edged by 0.32% on a quarterly basis. The German market experienced modest price gains driven by stable demand from the automotive and engineering sectors, higher transportation costs, and rising alloy surcharges. While the broader European market faced weak end-user activity and competition from imports, German producers benefited from regional regulations and supply chain adjustments that limited foreign competition.

Supply disruptions and cost inflation, particularly for nickel and energy, also contributed to upward price pressure, helping mills achieve minor price increases despite a cautious buying environment. 

In the United States, stainless steel HR coil prices rose 0.45% on a quarterly basis. The US market was supported by steady demand from construction and automotive sectors, ongoing trade restrictions, and stable raw material costs. Domestic mills leveraged tariffs and limited import competition to maintain pricing power, while infrastructure projects and a resilient housing market provided a steady base of demand.

Although the pace of price increases moderated compared to earlier quarters, the US stainless HR coil market remained one of the more stable globally, with buyers accepting modest hikes amid supply chain consistency and predictable cost structures. 

According to PriceWatch, stainless steel HR coil prices increased by 0.18% from approximately $2,182 per metric tonne in Q1 to $2,186 per metric tonne in Q2. The Indian market saw mild upward movement, supported by steady infrastructure activity, modest restocking, and stable raw material costs.

Early in the year, prices experienced mild corrections due to increased imports and global trade volatility, but Q2 brought relative stability as government procurement and infrastructure spending sustained demand. The rupee’s stability and a balanced supply-demand equation kept price movements limited, reflecting a cautious but steady market outlook for Indian stainless HR coil buyers and producers. 

In Q1 2025, China’s stainless-steel hot rolled coil (HR coil) prices slipped from $1,817/MT in Q4 2024 to $1,803/MT FOB Shanghai, as the market contended with persistent oversupply, cautious downstream demand, and heightened competition from both domestic and international mills. Despite some support from rising nickel and chromium input costs, weak construction and manufacturing activity kept price momentum subdued.

In the USA, prices also declined, pressured by softer demand in the automotive and construction sectors, and buyers delaying purchases in anticipation of further corrections. The Indian market mirrored this trend, with prices falling due to tepid domestic demand, increased imports, and mills offering discounts to clear inventories.

In contrast, Germany saw prices pick up modestly, supported by anti-dumping measures on imports, steady demand from engineering and automotive sectors, and cautious restocking by distributors. Overall, while Germany’s stainless steel HR coil market showed resilience, other major regions faced downward price pressure amid challenging fundamentals and global oversupply. 

In Q1 2025, prices softened slightly to $2,246/MT Ex-Mumbai a marginal 0.17% decrease from the previous quarter. The market faced a seasonal slowdown as construction and project activity paused after the year-end rush. Additionally, some buyers delayed purchases in anticipation of potential price corrections amid global economic uncertainties and fluctuating input costs.

Export demand moderated as international buyers adopted a wait-and-watch approach. Mills responded by offering limited discounts, but overall, the market remained stable with expectations of a gradual recovery as the year progressed and new project announcements emerged. 

Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (HR) Coil Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the Stainless-Steel HR Coil market across key regions, including India, China, Germany, and the USA, showed varied pricing trends, reflecting differing market dynamics. In India, the price remained relatively stable, indicating consistent demand and supply conditions. However, in Germany, prices decreased to USD 2780/MT from the previous quarter, largely due to persistent oversupply and subdued demand.

The reduction in prices was driven by ongoing market challenges such as weak industrial activity and production cost pressures. In contrast, USA saw a slight decrease in prices from Q3, though the market remained relatively resilient, supported by strong demand from the automotive sector and limited supply disruptions.  

In Q4 2024, stainless steel HR coil prices in India climbed to $2,250/MT, marking the strongest quarter-on-quarter gain of 1.05% during the year. This was supported by robust year-end demand from both domestic and export markets, as buyers rushed to complete projects and restock inventories before the close of the financial year.

The government’s continued push for infrastructure and manufacturing investments further boosted consumption. Mills operated at high capacity utilization, and order books remained healthy. Export demand was also strong, with Indian material remaining attractive in global markets due to its quality and price competitiveness. 

The Stainless Steel CR Coil market in the APAC region experienced a pressure on price trend in Q3 2024, driven by persistent oversupply, weak demand, and rising input costs. These factors exerted downward pressure on prices, resulting in a generally negative pricing environment. China, which saw the most significant price fluctuations, mirrored the broader regional trend.

Although there was no change from the previous quarter in 2024, a slight decline of 1% was observed between the first and second halves of the quarter, reflecting the prevailing bearish market sentiment and the challenges faced by industry players.

Germany, saw notable price increases compared to both the same quarter last year and the previous quarter in 2024. However, there were no significant fluctuations between the first and second halves of the quarter, signaling steady demand and a positive pricing trajectory. 

In Q3 2024, prices rose further to $2,227/MT, up 0.49% from the previous quarter. The market saw continued improvement in demand from the automotive and engineering industries, with several infrastructure projects progressing steadily. Raw material costs remained firm, providing cost support for mills.

Export demand held steady, especially from Europe and Southeast Asia. Despite the monsoon season, which typically slows construction, the overall market mood was positive, and mills were able to maintain firmer offers, supported by healthy order books and stable production levels. 

The second quarter of 2024 saw a significant rise in Stainless Steel HR Coil prices across Europe, driven by multiple factors. Key influences included rising inflation, regulatory changes, and fluctuations in energy costs. Notably, the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) played a significant role by imposing benchmarks on domestic production, processing, and recycling capacities, reducing dependency on non-EU sources.

Additionally, the European Central Bank’s interest rate cut to 3.75% aimed to stimulate economic confidence, but rising alloy surcharges, particularly for nickel and molybdenum, contributed to increased stainless steel pricing. 

Germany experienced the most substantial price changes in the region, with prices steadily increasing due to rising freight costs and robust demand from the automotive sector, which saw a notable recovery reflected in a surge of new car registrations. Seasonal demand also had an impact, with prices rising by 22% compared to the first quarter of 2024. 

In China, high nickel ore costs and tight nickel pig iron (NPI) supply were major contributors to rising production expenses. Although downstream demand remained weak. Seasonal slowdowns and reduced manufacturing activity, as indicated by the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), added complexity to the market dynamics. 

In Q2 2024, Prices edged up to $2,215/MT, marking a modest 0.31% quarter-on-quarter increase. The improvement was driven by a gradual pickup in demand from infrastructure projects and the white goods sector as the weather improved and project execution gained momentum.

Export opportunities also improved slightly, particularly to Southeast Asia and the Middle East, where Indian stainless steel remained competitively priced. Mills benefited from firmer raw material costs, particularly for nickel and chromium, which supported the slight price uptick. Market sentiment turned cautiously optimistic, with expectations of further improvement as downstream demand strengthened. 

In Q1 2024, the Stainless-Steel HR Coil market exhibited a mix of price movements across key regions, including India, China, Germany, and the USA. In India, prices remained relatively stable showing a minor decrease from Q4 2023. The market in China also saw a slight dip, with prices decreasing reflecting subdued demand amid ongoing challenges in the domestic market.

In Germany, prices showed a slight increase to USD 2743/MT, driven by steady demand from key sectors such as automotive and industrial production, alongside a stable supply chain. Meanwhile, in the USA, prices dropped, reflecting a cooling of demand from construction and manufacturing sectors, coupled with a more cautious market sentiment.

Overall, Q1 2024 market analysis reveals a stable pricing environment in India and Germany, while China and the USA experienced slight price declines, driven by weaker demand and broader economic factors. 

In Q1 2024, the average price of Stainless-steel HR coil in India was $2,208/MT Ex-Mumbai, reflecting a slight decline of 0.43% from the previous quarter. The market started the year on a cautious note, with demand from the construction and manufacturing sectors remaining subdued after the year-end lull.

Buyers were hesitant to build inventories, anticipating further price corrections amid stable input costs and competitive offers from both domestic and imported material. Export activity was also limited, as global markets faced similar demand headwinds. Mills responded with selective discounts and flexible payment terms, but overall sentiment remained muted, with most transactions being need-based. 

Technical Specifications of Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (hr) Coil Price Trends

Product Description

A stainless-steel hot rolled coil is a type of steel product made by heating stainless steel above its recrystallization temperature and then rolling it into thin, continuous coils. The process involves passing the heated stainless steel through a series of rollers to reduce its thickness and shape it into long, flat, and durable strips. Stainless steel HR coils are highly valued for their corrosion resistance, strength, and aesthetic appeal.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • HS Code – 721913 (SS HR Coil 304 – 3mm)


SS HR Coil Synonym –

  • Stainless steel HR coil


SS HR Coil Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • SS HR Coil 304-3mm Price Trend


SS HR Coil Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 15-20 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Container


Incoterms Referenced in SS HR Coil Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  SS HR Coil Export price from China 
Del Alabama  Alabama, USA  Imported  SS HR Coil price in USA 
FD- Willich  Sheffield, Germany  Export price of SS HR Coil price in Germany 
EX-Mumbai  Mumbai, India  Domestically Traded SS HR Coil price in India 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the SS HR Coil being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for SS HR Coil packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Key SS HR Coil Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
Outokumpu   
Baosteel  
Acerinox   
POSCO Stainless   
Nippon Steel Corporation   
Thyssenkrupp   
Jindal Stainless  
Tsingshan Holding Group   

Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (hr) Coil Industrial Applications

stainless steel hr coil market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (hr) Coil prices

  • Raw Material and Energy Price Surge (2021-2022): The global energy crisis, particularly the surge in natural gas and electricity prices during 2021-2022, directly impacted the production costs of stainless steel. High energy prices affected the operations of major steel mills, driving up production costs, which were subsequently reflected in the final prices of stainless steel HR coils.  
  • Global Supply Chain Disruption (2022): The war in Ukraine and other geopolitical tensions disrupted supply chains, leading to price volatility in various commodities, including stainless steel HR coil. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2019-2020): The global pandemic led to a significant decline in demand for stainless steel HR coil-intensive industries, such as steelmaking and automotive manufacturing, causing prices to plummet. 
  • Global Economic Downturn (2019-2020): The global economic slowdown, particularly in sectors like steel and automotive, led to reduced demand for stainless steel HR coil, resulting in lower prices. 
  • Raw Material Price Volatility: Fluctuations in the prices of key raw materials such as nickel and chromium played a significant role in influencing stainless steel prices. Nickel, in particular, saw large price swings, with prices climbing in 2019. 


These events underscore the stainless steel HR coil market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics. 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil 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 stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil market data.

Track PriceWatch's stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil 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 stainless steel HR coil production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire stainless steel HR coil 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 stainless steel HR coil 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 stainless steel HR coil 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 stainless steel HR coil demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global stainless steel HR coil 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 stainless steel HR coil 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 stainless steel HR coil 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 stainless steel HR coil 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 stainless steel HR coil pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Stainless Steel Hot Rolled (hr) Coil Market Price Trend 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 stainless steel hot rolled (hr) coil. 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 price of Stainless-Steel HR Coil (SSHR) is influenced by several key factors, including:
1. Raw Material Costs
• Prices of Nickel, Chromium, and Iron fluctuate based on market demand and supply.
• Nickel is especially volatile and significantly impacts SS 304 pricing.
2. Market Demand and Supply
• High demand from industries like construction, automotive, and manufacturing raises prices.
• Supply chain disruptions (e.g., raw material shortages, logistics issues) can increase costs.
3. Production Costs
• Energy costs, including electricity and fuel for steel production.
• Labor costs in manufacturing and processing.
• Technology and automation level in the production process.
4. Global Economic Conditions
• Inflation, interest rates, and currency exchange rates impact raw material imports and pricing.
• Trade policies, tariffs, and duties imposed by different countries.
5. Quality and Specifications
• Grade of steel (e.g., 304, 316, 430) affects cost due to different compositions.
• Thickness, width, and surface finish (No.1, 2B, HRAP) also determine price.
6. Freight and Logistics Costs
• Transportation costs for shipping raw materials and finished coils.
• Availability of containers and shipping routes.
7. Government Regulations and Taxes
• Import/export duties, anti-dumping duties, and environmental compliance costs.
• Certification requirements (ISO, ASTM) affecting production expenses.
8. Seasonal and Regional Variations
• Prices may fluctuate based on regional demand-supply dynamics.
• Seasonal demand from industries like construction can cause price hikes.

Commodity prices can have a significant impact on inflation. When commodity prices rise, it can increase the cost of production for businesses, which may pass these costs on to consumers in the form of higher prices. This can lead to inflation, a sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy.

Price-Watch, a leading procurement intelligence firm, offers a comprehensive suite of tools and services to help you effectively track Stainless Steel HR Coil prices.
Some of the key benefits of using Price-Watch include:
Real-time Data: Access to up-to-date market intelligence and data on commodity supply chains.
Expert Analysis: Insights from industry experts to interpret market trends and identify potential risks.
Risk Assessment: Tools to assess supply chain vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies.
Benchmarking: Comparisons of Stainless-Steel HR Coil prices and sourcing practices to optimize procurement decisions.
Supplier Intelligence: Detailed information on suppliers, including their financial health, production capacity, and sustainability practices.

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