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Stainless Steel Round Bar Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 30101706
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stainless steel round bar Price Trends by Country

cnChina
deGermany
usUnited States
inIndia

Global stainless steel round bar Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Stainless Steel Round Bar price assessment:

  • 304-50mm FOB Shanghai, China
  • 304-15mm Ex-Mumbai, India
  • 304-50mm FD-Willich, Germany
  • 304-50mm Del Alabama, USA

Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar Price Trend Q3 2025

The worldwide Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar market exhibited a mixed pattern in Q3 2025. In certain regions of the world, demand from various sectors resulted in moderate increases, while other regions faced pressures from import competition and weaker industrial activity.

Stable raw material costs kept volatility low, and production rates were largely aligned with prevailing consumption patterns. September saw limited price improvements in most markets due to short-term restocking, but overall sentiment remained reserved heading toward the year’s final quarter.

Germany

Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar Domestic prices FD- Willich, Germany, Grade- 304-50mm.

The Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar price trend in Germany declined by 1.34% in Q3 2025, as sluggish demand from machinery and automotive sectors combined with competitive imports from neighboring European markets applied downward pressure on prices. Producers maintained output levels to meet contract commitments, but excess supply limited pricing flexibility.

The strong euro also reduced export competitiveness, impacting foreign sales. Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar prices in Germany increased slightly by 0.05% in September 2025, aided by minor replenishment purchases from industrial processors and distributors, though the overall demand backdrop remained weak.

USA

Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar prices EX Alabama, USA, Grade- 304-50mm.

In Q3 2025, the Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar price trend in the USA increased by 0.99%, underpinned by strong consumption from the aerospace, energy, and heavy equipment sectors. Domestic offers received upward momentum as supply has been constrained by mill maintenance schedules and limited import arrivals.

Demand remained steady with procurement steady from end-users maintaining supply-demand equilibrium. In September 2025, Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar prices in the USA increased by marginal 0.04% aided by the consistent, yet tentative demand which reflected continuous distributor replenishment of stock to cover ongoing project requirements while also absorbing recent macroeconomic mixed signals.

China

Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade- 304-3mm.

According to Price-Watch, in 3Q 2025 the Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar price trend in China dropped moderately, declining by 0.91% impacted by poor demand from the manufacturing, engineering, and construction sectors. While mills kept production levels constant, domestic supply remained ample, and exports weakened as competition intensified from producers in Southeast Asia.

Raw material costs have been stable and haven’t provided producers with motivation to increase prices. Buyers have been cautious about purchasing activity to avoid excess inventories. Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar prices in China dropped slightly in September by 0.55% due to weakened seasonal demand and market participants’ choice to place less and smaller orders, illustrating continued caution in the market for SS Round Bar in China.

India

Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar Domestic prices EX-Mumbai, India, Grade- 304-15mm.

According to Price-Watch, the price trend of Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar in India fell by 0.80% in Q3 2025, pressured by slower consumption from fabrication and infrastructure projects along with competitive import offers from regional suppliers. Domestic mills faced challenges in sustaining prices despite stable input costs, as overall industrial activity showed only marginal improvement.

Cautious buying behavior persisted across the market, with most traders refraining from bulk procurement. Stainless Steel (SS) Round Bar prices in India rose by 0.50% in September 2025, supported by mild restocking ahead of festive season demand and selective large-project orders that temporarily boosted market activity.

Stainless Steel Round Bar Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, stainless steel round bar prices in China slipped slightly from $2,284 per metric tonne in Q1 to $2,278 per metric tonne in Q2, a 0.26% decrease. This minor decline reflects the ongoing challenge of oversupply and subdued demand in both domestic and export markets. While downstream sectors such as machinery and construction maintained steady consumption, it was not enough to offset the high production rates from Chinese mills.

Additionally, fluctuating nickel prices and cautious procurement strategies among buyers contributed to market softness. Export opportunities remained limited due to trade barriers and competitive offers from Southeast Asia, putting further downward pressure on prices. Despite these headwinds, the market found some support from infrastructure investments and the push for high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials in industrial applications. 

In Germany, stainless steel round bar prices rose from by 0.43% in Q2. The German market saw modest gains amid stable demand from the engineering, automotive, and machinery sectors, which are key consumers of stainless steel round bar. While the broader European market remained cautious due to economic uncertainties and competition from lower-cost imports, German producers benefited from a reputation for high-quality, precision-engineered products.

Raw material costs, particularly for nickel and chromium, stabilized during the quarter, providing some relief to mills. Additionally, expected EU trade measures aimed at curbing cheap imports helped shore up local prices, although buyers remained prudent in their purchasing decisions. 

In the United States, stainless steel round bar prices increased 0.56% in Q2. The US market was supported by resilient demand from the aerospace, automotive, and oil & gas sectors, all of which require high-specification stainless steel products. Domestic mills leveraged ongoing infrastructure projects and favorable trade policies to maintain pricing power, even as global competition intensified.

Higher input costs, especially for energy and scrap, were largely passed on to buyers, contributing to the modest price increase. The outlook remains positive, with steady demand expected to continue, particularly as US manufacturers focus on quality and reliability in critical applications. 

According to PriceWatch, stainless steel round bar prices in India edged up 0.51% increase, approximately $2,337/tonne in Q1 to $2,351/tonne in Q2. The Indian market benefited from steady growth in engineering, automotive, and infrastructure sectors, all of which rely on stainless steel round bar for its strength and durability. Ongoing government infrastructure projects and a stable rupee helped support domestic demand, while moderate raw material cost increases were largely absorbed by the market.

Export activity remained consistent, with Indian producers maintaining competitiveness in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Overall, the price trend reflects a healthy balance between supply and demand, underpinned by India’s robust industrial activity. 

In Q1 2025, China’s stainless steel round bar prices dropped from $2,317/MT in Q4 2024 to $2,284/MT, reflecting persistent oversupply, weak demand from the property sector, and heightened export competition amid global trade barriers. The Chinese market faced headwinds from sluggish construction and real estate activity, with only partial support from infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, and export prices also declined as mills sought to clear inventories.

In contrast, prices in both the USA and India fell during the quarter, pressured by ample supply, softer downstream demand, and cautious buying as buyers anticipated further corrections. The US market was further affected by uncertainty around tariffs and fluctuating scrap prices, while India saw a slowdown in project launches and subdued export orders.

Meanwhile, Germany’s market remained stable, supported by steady demand from the engineering and automotive sectors and limited import competition, with local mills maintaining balanced supply. Overall, while Germany held firm, the broader global stainless steel round bar market in Q1 2025 was characterized by price declines or stagnation, especially in Asia and the Americas, amid challenging demand and inventory conditions.

In Q1 2025, prices softened slightly to $2,407/MT, a 0.48% decrease from the previous quarter. The market experienced 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.

Export demand moderated as international buyers adopted a wait-and-watch approach, influenced by fluctuating input costs and currency movements. Mills responded by offering limited discounts, but overall, the market remained stable with expectations of a gradual recovery as the year progressed. 

Stainless Steel Round Bar Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In India, prices showed a slight rise, reflecting stable domestic demand and consistent production levels. The market in China also saw a modest price increase, supported by steady demand and a gradual recovery in industrial activities. Similarly, Germany experienced a small price increase, driven by robust demand from key sectors such as automotive and manufacturing, although supply constraints continued to influence market dynamics. 

The USA, however, witnessed the most significant price decrease among the regions. Strong demand from the automotive and construction industries played a major role, as these sectors continued to drive the need for stainless steel round bars.  

Overall, the Q4 2024 stainless steel round bar market was characterized by steady growth across all regions, with the USA and Germany seeing the most notable price adjustments. 

 

By Q4 2024, stainless steel round bar prices in India climbed to $2,419/MT, marking the strongest quarter-on-quarter gain of 0.86% 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 round bar market in Q3 2024 displayed a stable pricing trend across various regions, with balanced supply and demand influencing market conditions. In the United States, prices experienced a slight decline, primarily due to continuing weak demand from key industries and the ongoing economic challenges. High interest rates and cautious buying behavior further limited any significant price movements, contributing to a more subdued market atmosphere. 

In Europe, the market for stainless steel round bars remained relatively stable, with pricing conditions in Germany showing a modest increase compared to previous quarter. This was driven by steady demand from industries such as automotive and manufacturing. However, similar to other regions, there was little price variation between the first and second halves of the quarter, suggesting a balanced market sentiment. 

Meanwhile, in India and China, prices for stainless steel round bars saw a slight decline during Q3 2024. This drop was attributed to global oversupply and moderate demand, which put downward pressure on prices in both regions.  

 

In Q3 2024, prices rose further to $2,398/MT, up 0.41% 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, particularly for nickel and chromium, 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. 

The stainless-steel round bar market in Q2 2024 experienced a mixed trend across different regions. In the United States, prices continued to be under pressure due to weak demand from key industries and ongoing economic concerns. High interest rates further suppressed buying activity, contributing to bearish market sentiment. Additionally, rising transportation costs and seasonal factors intensified the challenges faced by the market, leading to a subdued outlook for the quarter. 

In contrast, the market in Germany showed a slight price increase, although it was modest. The German market benefited from some recovery in industrial activity, particularly in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, following the winter slowdown. However, overall demand remained relatively stable, preventing any significant price escalation. 

In India and China, prices for stainless steel round bars remained relatively stable, with minimal changes observed compared to the previous quarter. The market conditions in both regions reflected steady demand, but external factors such as supply chain issues and fluctuations in raw material prices continued to influence market stabilit

Prices edged up to $2,388/MT in Q2 2024, a modest 0.31% increase quarter-on-quarter. The improvement was driven by a gradual pickup in demand from the infrastructure and manufacturing sectors as project execution gained pace with the onset of the dry season. Export opportunities improved slightly, particularly to the Middle East and Europe, where Indian stainless steel remained competitively priced.

Mills benefited from reduced inventories and firmer raw material costs, which supported the price uptick. Market sentiment became cautiously optimistic, with expectations of further recovery as downstream demand strengthened. 

The stainless-steel round bar market saw a decline in the first quarter of 2024, with prices dropping in various regions. In the US, the decline was driven by low downstream demand, coupled with a relatively stable supply of raw materials such as nickel and iron ore. Despite sufficient feedstock availability, the overall market sentiment was weak, leading to a decrease in prices.

Similarly, prices in India and China also saw a reduction compared to the previous quarter, reflecting global market pressures. In Germany, the stainless steel round bar market experienced a noticeable price decrease as well, although demand from key sectors like automotive and manufacturing remained steady.

The Q1 2024 global price trend reflects cautious market behaviour, with excess supply of nickel and reduced demand for stainless steel products contributing to the overall decline. 

 

In Q1 2024, the average price of stainless steel round bar in India was $2,381/MT, reflecting a marginal 0.39% decline from the previous quarter. The market faced sluggish demand from the construction and engineering sectors, as project activity remained slow after the year-end. Inventory levels at service centres and distributors were relatively high, leading to cautious procurement and limited restocking.

Export orders were also subdued due to competitive offers from Southeast Asian producers. Mills responded by offering minor discounts and flexible payment terms, but overall sentiment remained cautious as buyers awaited clearer signals of recovery. 

Technical Specifications of Stainless Steel Round Bar Price Trends

Product Description

Stainless Steel round bar is a cylindrical steel product that is produced through a process of rolling or forging. The steel is heated to a high temperature and then passed through rollers or forged to create a round cross-section, resulting in a long, solid bar with a consistent diameter. Round bars are commonly used in a variety of industries, including construction, automotive, and manufacturing, due to their versatility and strength.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • HS Code – 722230


SS Round bar Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • SS Round bar 304-50mm Price Trend
  • SS Round bar 304-15mm Price Trend


SS Round bar Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 15-20 MT, 50-60 MT and 28-30 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Container


Incoterms Referenced in SS Round bar Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Shanghai  China  Stainless Steel Round Bar Export price from China 
Del Alabama  USA  Imported Stainless Steel Round bar price in USA 
FD Willich  Germany  Export Stainless Steel Round bar from Germany 
EX-Mumbai  India  Domestically Traded Stainless Steel Round bar price in India 

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

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

Key SS Round bar Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
Outokumpu   
Jindal Stainless   
Acerinox   
POSCO Stainless   
Thyssenkrupp   
Valbruna   
Tsingshan Holding Group   
Aurum Alloys   

Stainless Steel Round Bar Industrial Applications

stainless steel round bar market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Stainless Steel Round Bar prices

  • Global Economic Downturn (2019-2020): The global economic slowdown, particularly in sectors like steel and automotive, led to reduced demand for Stainless steel round bar, resulting in lower prices.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2019-2020): The global pandemic led to a significant decline in demand for Stainless steel round bar-intensive industries, such as steelmaking and automotive manufacturing, causing prices to plummet.
  • 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 round bar.
  • 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.
  • 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 round bars.

These events underscore the Stainless steel round bar 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 round bar 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 round bar 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 round bar prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely stainless steel round bar market data.

Track PriceWatch's stainless steel round bar 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​

  • 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 round bars.  
  • 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 round bar. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2019-2020): The global pandemic led to a significant decline in demand for Stainless steel round bar-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 round bar, 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 round bar market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics. 

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 round bar 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 round bar 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 round bar demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

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

Stainless Steel Round Bar 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 round bar. 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 Stainless-Steel Round Bars is influenced by several key factors, including:
1. Raw Material Costs
• The price of Nickel, Chromium, Manganese, and Iron significantly impacts stainless steel prices.
• Market fluctuations in these metal prices can lead to cost variations.
2. Grade of Stainless Steel
• Different grades (e.g., 304, 316, 410, 430) have varying compositions and properties, affecting costs.
• Higher alloy content (e.g., 316 with Molybdenum) increases corrosion resistance but also price.
3. Manufacturing Process
• Hot Rolled vs. Cold Drawn: Cold-drawn bars have better finish and precision but are costlier.
• Heat Treatment & Annealing: Additional processing steps raise production costs.
4. Size & Dimensions
• Larger diameters or custom lengths increase material usage and production complexity.
• Precision tolerance requirements add to machining costs.
5. Supply & Demand
• Higher demand from industries like construction, automotive, and aerospace can drive prices up.
• Global supply chain issues or trade restrictions can impact availability and costs.
6. Import & Export Tariffs
• Duties and tariffs on stainless steel imports/exports affect pricing.
• Trade policies of major producers (China, India, USA, EU) influence global prices.
7. Energy & Production Costs
• Electricity, fuel, and labor costs in the manufacturing region contribute to price fluctuations.
• Countries with high energy costs may have more expensive stainless steel products.
8. Market Conditions & Inflation
• Economic conditions, inflation rates, and currency fluctuations impact material costs.
• Increased transportation costs (e.g., fuel price hikes) can affect final pricing.
9. Certifications & Compliance
• Stainless steel bars requiring ISO, ASTM, ASME, or other certifications may cost more due to rigorous testing.
• Compliance with specific industry standards can impact pricing.

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