Steel Billet Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 30103308
|
âźł Weekly Update
|
Historical Data Since 2015
|
Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

steel billet Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
itItaly
cnChina
ruRussia
idIndonesia
inIndia

Global steel billet Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Steel Billet price assessment:

  • 100*100mm EX Alabama, USA
  • 100*100mm FD Taranto, Italy
  • Q235 (100*100mm) FOB Shanghai, China
  • Q235 (100*100mm) CIF Tanjung Priok (China), Indonesia
  • 100*100mm (IF Route) EX-Mumbai, India
  • 100*100mm (IF Route) EX-Raipur, India
  • 100*100mm (IF Route) EX-Chennai, India
  • 100*100mm (IF Route) EX-Durgapur, India
  • St2sp (125*125mm) FOB Black Sea, Russia

Steel Billet Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, global steel billet prices are showing a negative trend due to persistent oversupply particularly from increased Chinese exports coupled with weak downstream demand in key sectors like construction and manufacturing. Seasonal slowdowns and declining raw material costs, such as iron ore and coking coal, have further reduced production costs but also intensified price competition among suppliers.

Narrowing margins and fragile market sentiment are forcing mills to cut prices to maintain sales volumes, especially in Asia where billet offers have already dropped. Overall, the market outlook remains bearish for the quarter.

USA

Steel Billet Domestic prices EX Alabama, USA, Grade- 100*100mm.

In Q3 2025, steel billet prices in the U.S. market have declined modestly by around 0.89% compared to Q2, reflecting a slight downward trend driven by weakening demand from key sectors such as construction and automotive, along with softer downstream steel product prices.

Elevated inventories and moderate input cost pressures have limited any meaningful price recovery, while existing trade protections have offered partial support against import competition. Overall, the market has remained cautious, with gradual price softness persisting amid stable supply conditions.

In September 2025, steel billet prices in the U.S. have fallen by 1.06%, reflecting reduced demand from core industries and increased market supply, further influenced by global economic uncertainty and fluctuations in raw material costs.

Italy

Steel Billet Domestic prices FD Taranto, Italy, Grade- 100*100mm.

According to Price-Watch, In Italy, the steel billet price trend in Q3 2025 experienced a 2.32% decrease compared to Q2, owing to persistently weak domestic demand, continued import pressure particularly from Turkish suppliers, and rising energy costs that are affecting the margins of production in the region.

The sluggish pace of activity in some construction and manufacturing sectors exacerbated overall billet consumption, and buyers tended to exhibit caution amid continued macroeconomic uncertainty.

The price trend had some support from limited restocking at the end of the quarter and incentives stemming from EU policy, but throughout the quarter the overall sentiment was bearish, with the market anticipating stabilization only should supply tighten or input costs ease.

The 0.4% decline in prices for steel billet in Italy in September 2025 has been the result of weak consumption from end-use sectors such as construction and manufacturing. Additionally, increased supply activity from foreign markets may also have added downward pressure to domestic prices.

China

Steel Billet Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade- Q235 (100*100mm).

In the third quarter of 2025, the steel billet price trend in the Chinese market evidenced a slight decline of 1.52% as compared to the previous quarter, primarily from weak domestic demand, especially from the construction and real estate sectors, alongside continued oversupply and lacklustre downstream consumption.

While export shipments helped to some extent, challenges due to global protectionism and high inventory levels prevented prices from receiving much support. The Chinese government attempted to help placate the downwards price pressure through initiatives to reduce steel supply and stabilize the raw material cost in order to help mitigate larger declines in prices; nevertheless, the overall market remained bearish.

Therefore, billet prices averaged slightly lower quarter on quarter, reflecting caution in the overall steel market. The 0.96% decline in steel billet prices in China observed in September 2025 has been a result of lower domestic demand from the construction and manufacturing sectors, largely due to an economic slowdown. In addition, growing output and inventory led to oversupply, contributing to further downward price pressure.

Steel Billet Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, steel billet prices dropped by $443 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai a 3.49% decrease, driven by geopolitical instability and shifting tariff policies. Ongoing conflicts, particularly in Eastern Europe and parts of the Middle East, have disrupted infrastructure projects and dampened demand from major consumers. Simultaneously, increased protectionism such as higher tariffs imposed by the U.S. and retaliatory measures from China and the EU has altered trade flows, creating regional oversupply.

Exporters are now redirecting shipments to less restricted markets, intensifying competition and pressuring prices downward. Additionally, uncertainties around trade agreements have led buyers to delay purchases, further weakening demand. These combined factors have led to a notable softening in steel billet prices for the quarter. 

In the first quarter of 2025, the steel billet market experienced a notable decline, with prices dropping by $458.75 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai representing a 2.10% decrease. This downward trend reflects softening demand across key industrial sectors, including construction and manufacturing, amid global economic uncertainties and tighter monetary policies.

Additionally, oversupply in major producing regions and easing raw material costs, such as iron ore and scrap, contributed to the price correction. The decline signals cautious buyer sentiment and a potential shift in market dynamics as producers reassess output levels to stabilize prices moving forward. 

Steel Billet Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the steel billet market experienced a notable price increase of $468.58 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai reflecting a 0.75% uptick from the previous quarter. This moderate but significant rise suggests sustained demand, likely driven by continued infrastructure development and manufacturing activity in key markets such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Additionally, supply constraints due to elevated energy costs and geopolitical tensions may have contributed to the upward price pressure. The 0.75% increase, while not extreme, indicates steady market momentum and resilience, signalling a cautiously optimistic outlook for the steel billet sector heading into 2025. 

In Q3 2024, the steel billet market experienced a notable downturn, with prices declining by $465.11 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai representing a 9.48% drop. This price correction reflects a combination of weakening global demand, particularly from key construction and manufacturing sectors, and an oversupply situation fueled by increased production in major steel-producing regions.

Additionally, macroeconomic factors such as high interest rates, geopolitical uncertainties, and reduced infrastructure spending in emerging markets have contributed to dampening buyer sentiment. The price drop underscores the industry’s sensitivity to shifting economic indicators and could prompt producers to reassess output levels to stabilize the market in the coming quarters. 

In the second quarter of 2024, the steel billet market experienced a notable price decline, with the average price dropping by $513.83 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai representing a 2.31% decrease. This downward trend reflects weakened demand across key consuming sectors such as construction and manufacturing, coupled with a supply surplus from major producers.

Global economic uncertainty, slower-than-expected industrial recovery in China, and softer commodity demand contributed to the bearish sentiment. Additionally, reduced raw material costs and improved production efficiencies may have pressured prices further.

Market participants are closely monitoring potential stimulus measures and trade policy adjustments that could influence pricing dynamics in the coming quarters. 

In Q1 2024, the steel billet market experienced a notable downturn, with prices declining by $525.96 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai representing a 2% decrease. This suggests that while the absolute price drop appears substantial, the percentage change indicates it occurred from a relatively high price base.

The decline may be attributed to several market dynamics, including softened global demand, particularly from construction and manufacturing sectors, as well as increased supply from major producing countries.

Additionally, easing raw material costs and improved production efficiencies likely contributed to downward pricing pressure. Market sentiment may also have been influenced by macroeconomic factors such as interest rate policies, trade shifts, or geopolitical developments impacting steel trade flows. 

Technical Specifications of Steel Billet Price Trends

Product Description

Steel billet is a semi-finished product made from molten steel that has been cast and then shaped into rectangular or square cross sections. It serves as a primary raw material for the production of long steel products such as rebar, wire rods, and structural steel. Known for its strength, malleability, and uniform composition, steel billet is widely used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering industries. Its high structural integrity and versatility make it essential in forging, rolling, and other metal forming processes.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • HS Code – 720720


Steel Billet Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Q235 (100*100mm)
  • 100*100mm


Steel Billet Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 150-200 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Container


Incoterms Referenced in Steel Billet Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  Steel Billet Export price from China 
EX Alabama   Alabama, USA  Domestically Traded Steel Billet price in USA 
FD Taranto  Taranto, Italy  Domestically Traded Steel Billet price in Italy 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Steel Billet being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

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

Key Steel Billet Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
China Baowu Steel Group 
ArcelorMittal 
Jindal Stainless Limited 
Mukand Limited 
Shyam Steel Industries Ltd. 

Steel Billet Industrial Applications

steel billet market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Steel Billet prices

  • Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Policies (2022–2023): Events such as the Russia-Ukraine war disrupted steel and raw material supply chains, particularly in Eastern Europe—an important billet-producing region. Sanctions, export restrictions, and shifting trade flows further constrained supply and added to global price volatility. 
  • Energy and Raw Material Cost Inflation (2021–2022): Prices of key inputs like iron ore, coking coal, and energy (especially electricity and natural gas) rose sharply, increasing production costs for steel billets. These cost pressures were passed downstream, contributing to elevated billet prices. 
  • Post-Pandemic Economic Recovery (2020–2021): As global economies began recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, pent-up demand for construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development surged. This rebound drove up demand for steel billets as a primary input in long and flat steel products, leading to a notable price increase. 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's steel billet 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: We gather information from global exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary sources to provide timely and accurate assessments. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: We incorporate insights from producers, suppliers, and end-users across key production regions to offer a comprehensive view of market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the availability and cost of raw materials to evaluate supply conditions and price pressures. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: We monitor political and economic events that impact supply chains and the flow of steel billet production. 
  • Market Demand Shifts: Our analysis considers global shifts in industrial and consumer demand, particularly in sectors like automotive, electronics, and renewable energy. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We assess operational Steel billet production facilities and their output levels. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: We forecast future production capabilities, factoring in technological advancements and production expansions.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: We evaluate demand from major sectors such as automotive catalysts, renewable energy, and electronics. 
  • Regional Demand Dynamics: We assess demand from key markets and regions, especially China, the USA, and Italy and their impact on global pricing. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: Our pricing models incorporate real-time data, historical trends, and market projections. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We perform scenario-based forecasting, assessing potential market conditions under various economic, geopolitical, and technological developments.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: We provide actionable insights, forecasting, and detailed analysis of current and future price trends. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch delivers continuous updates and expert advice tailored to your business needs.

Steel Billet 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 steel billet. 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.

Raw Material Costs – Steel billets are primarily produced from iron ore, scrap steel, and other raw materials. Changes in the prices of these raw materials directly impact billet costs.

Supply and Demand – Demand from sectors like construction, automotive, and manufacturing affects billet prices. High demand or low supply pushes prices up, while oversupply can bring them down.

Manufacturing Costs – Costs related to energy, labour, maintenance, and technology in steel mills influence the final price of billets.

Global Trade Policies & Tariffs – Import/export duties, trade restrictions, and tariffs on steel or raw materials can affect billet prices in various markets.

Market Competition – The number of producers and their pricing tactics impact market rates for steel billets.

Exchange Rates – Because steel billets are traded globally, fluctuations in currency values influence pricing in different countries.

Energy Prices – Steel production is energy-intensive; changes in electricity, coal, or natural gas prices can significantly affect billet manufacturing costs.

Environmental Regulations – Compliance with environmental policies may increase operational costs, influencing steel billet prices.

The availability and cost of raw materials such as high-carbon steel and alloy coatings directly affect steel billet production costs and pricing.

Steel billet prices tend to increase with inflation, driven largely by higher raw material and energy costs in production. Additionally, ongoing demand from construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects supports price stability, even during periods of economic uncertainty.

PriceWatch offers a range of tools and services to track commodity prices effectively:

Real-Time Data: Access market intelligence and data on global steel billet supply chains.

Expert Analysis: Insights into market trends and potential risks.

Risk Assessment: Tools to evaluate supply chain vulnerabilities.

Benchmarking: Compare steel billet prices and sourcing practices.

Supplier Intelligence: Information on supplier reliability and financial health.