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Steel Billet Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 30103308
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⟳ Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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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™ provides real-time price assessments and price forecasts for Steel Billet across top trading regions:

Steel Billet Regional Coverage Steel Billet Grade and Country Coverage Steel Billet Pricing Data Coverage Explanation
Asia Steel Billet Pricing Analysis Steel Billet Q235 (100*100mm) FOB Prices at Shanghai Port, China Weekly Price Update on Steel Billet Real-Time Export Prices from Shanghai Port, China to Global Markets
North America Steel Billet Pricing Analysis Steel Billet 100*100mm Ex-Alabama Domestic Prices, USA Real-Time Weekly Price Update of Steel Billet Domestic Prices in Alabama, USA
Europe Steel Billet Pricing Analysis Steel Billet 100*100mm FD Prices at Taranto, Italy Weekly Price Update on Steel Billet Real-Time Export Prices at Taranto, Italy to European Markets

Steel billet Price Trend Q1 2026

The global steel billet market appeared mixed in Q1 2026 relative to Q4 2025 due to relatively mild stabilisation in steel billet price trend after the weakness at the end of the year but still relatively weak demand in some key end use markets such as construction and manufacturing across Europe and Japan compared to steady demand for steel billets in Asia Pacific due to ongoing infrastructure and automotive activity within the region.

Globally, there has been still an excess of supply in the steel billet market as a result of China’s continued high volume of exports but provided some price support due to many factors, including price barriers created by EU import duties on steel billets and increasing inventories.

As such, the steel billet price trend has been moderately increased in selective markets but generally muted due to weak demand from end users and excessive supply. In addition, due to weak demand and ample supply, the outlook for the steel billet market appears cautious with limited opportunities for pricing increases without additional demand catalyst within the near future.

China: Steel billet, Export prices FOB Shanghai, China; Grade – Q235 (100*100mm)

The decrease in the steel billet price trend in China from Q4 2025 to the first quarter of 2026 (0.32%) has been driven by low domestic demand for construction and manufacturing, with production levels remaining stable and inventory levels stable.

The prices of raw materials associated with producing steel billets have also remained constant, which has been a major factor limiting the extent to which the price of steel billets has fluctuated. The Chinese government’s production caps on the country’s steel production system (2026-2030) have been hampering normal fluctuations in the price of steel billets within China.

Although steel billet prices in China increased in March 2026 by 0.76%, this price increase has been driven primarily by international exports, the limited domestic production capacity and the increase in the cost of producing steel billets. Due to weak domestic construction demand, the increase in the price of steel billets was small.

USA: Steel billet, Domestically traded prices, Ex Alabama, USA; Grade – 100*100mm

According to Price-Watch™ , in Q1 2026, the steel billet price trend in the USA showed a clear upward trajectory, rising 11.51 % compared to Q4 2025, driven by a combination of tightening domestic supply, robust demand from infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, and protective trade policies that limit import competition.

Mill utilization rates remain high, and selective maintenance schedules have constrained near term availability, further supporting higher prices. Stabilizing but moderately elevated costs for raw materials such as scrap and ferroalloys have also transmitted into finished billet pricing.

US steel billet prices rose by 3.72% in March 2026 due to tight domestic supply, firm mill utilization, higher input costs, and limited import pressure under tariffs, with stable construction demand supporting prices.

Italy: Steel billet, Domestically traded prices, FD Taranto, Italy; Grade – 100*100mm

In Q1 2026, the steel billet price trend in Italy have risen by approximately 7% compared to Q4 2025, driven by a combination of stabilizing domestic demand, inventory restocking, and moderating raw material costs.

European semi produced steel prices have begun to recover after late 2025 lows, and stricter EU environmental regulations, including carbon compliance measures, are increasing the cost of imported steel, indirectly supporting local billet prices.

Market sentiment is improving as manufacturers anticipate a moderate uptick in production, while supply constraints and cautious restocking are tightening inventories, further underpinning prices.

Italian steel billet price trend rose by 2.86% in March 2026 due to higher energy costs, CBAM driven import pressure, and mild demand recovery, while weak industrial demand limited sharper gains.

Steel Billet Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2025

In Q4 2025, the global Steel Billet market exhibited a mixed trend, driven by uneven demand across rolling mills, construction, and downstream steel product manufacturing, coupled with diverse regional supply dynamics. Certain regions saw modest price support supported by steady orders from re rollers and sustained infrastructure projects, while other markets experienced mild downward pressure as inventories remained ample and buyer caution limited aggressive procurement.

Import reliant markets faced sporadic price volatility due to shipping costs, port congestion, and currency fluctuations, whereas regions with strong domestic billet production generally recorded stable pricing with only minor deviations. Overall, the Steel Billet market in Q4 2025 reflected balanced fundamentals with intermittent price movements, underpinned by cautious market sentiment and region specific demand patterns as the industry transitioned toward early 2026.

China: Steel billet, Export prices FOB Shanghai, China; Grade – Q235 (100*100mm)

According to Price-Watch™ , In Q4 2025, steel billet prices in China declined by 1.46% compared to Q3 2025, reflecting a mild downward adjustment amid cautious market sentiment. Demand from construction, manufacturing, and machinery sectors remained subdued as project activity slowed toward the end of the year, while production at domestic steel mills stayed steady, ensuring adequate supply.

Producers maintained stable operating rates, but ample inventories and competitive pricing strategies exerted slight pressure on prices. In December 2025, the market experienced continued softness due to limited spot purchases and restrained procurement from downstream buyers, alongside weak export demand. Overall, the steel billet market remained well supplied but faced muted demand conditions, resulting in a moderate quarterly price decline as it moved into early 2026.

USA: Steel billet, Domestically traded prices, Ex Alabama, USA; Grade – 100*100mm

In Q4 2025, U.S. Steel Billet prices rose by 1.12% compared to Q3 2025, reflecting a modest upward trend supported by steady demand from the construction, automotive, and manufacturing sectors. End of quarter procurement activity increased slightly as mills and fabricators replenished inventories ahead of early 2026 projects, while domestic production remained aligned with order books to maintain balanced supply.

Stable scrap and alloy costs, coupled with moderate transportation expenses, limited price pressures, with the market largely driven by domestic consumption and minimal import influence. In December 2025, prices inched higher due to moderate restocking and slightly extended delivery lead times, giving mills limited leverage, resulting in a market characterized by balanced supply demand fundamentals, steady industrial demand, and mild pricing momentum entering early 2026.

Italy: Steel billet, Domestically traded prices, FD Taranto, Italy; Grade – 100*100mm

In Q4 2025, Steel Billet prices in Italy rose by 0.93% compared to Q3 2025, reflecting a moderately firmer market driven by steady demand from construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. Buyers remained selective but consistent, favouring timely purchases to secure supply amid rising costs, while domestic production constraints and firm regional orders added upward pressure.

Global supply remained ample but slightly affected by higher shipping and input expenses, and end user consumption in automotive, machinery, and building applications stayed stable to slightly increased. Minor currency fluctuations against the Euro contributed modestly to import costs, and by December 2025, prices edged higher despite seasonal slowdowns, leaving the Steel Billet market in Italy entering 2026 with controlled but upward price trends and stable supply demand fundamentals.

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.

United States: 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.

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

  • China Export Controls (2025): Restrictions and environmental quotas reduced exports by 40–50%, causing extreme global price jumps and regional market corrections.
  • Global Supply and Demand Acceleration (2023–2024): Rising feedstock costs, seasonal smelter maintenance, and stronger industrial demand in India and the USA drove Q2–Q3 price gains of approximately 18–28%.
  • COVID 19 Pandemic (2020): Lockdowns and operational disruptions at Chinese smelters caused supply shocks, leading to multiyear spot price highs worldwide.
  • Chinese Production Policies (2007–2008): Concentration of smelters and tighter export controls in China reduced output, creating global shortages and driving prices sharply higher.

Why Price Watch™?

Price Watch™ 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, Price Watch™ keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

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

Track Price Watch'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.

Steel Billet Market Price Trend published by Price Watch™ reflect prevailing spot market conditions, derived from independent research, verified trade inputs, and proprietary market intelligence as of the publication date. Prices are published on the specified Incoterm and represent indicative base market levels, exclusive of applicable taxes, VAT, duties, tariffs, and other statutory charges. Actual transaction values may vary depending on volume, credit terms, contractual structure, and other negotiated conditions. Market prices are inherently subject to volatility, liquidity dynamics, regulatory changes, and evolving trade activity. The information provided is for reference and benchmarking purposes only and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, or guarantee of transactional outcomes. Users should exercise independent commercial judgment and assess their specific contractual, regulatory, tax, and application requirements before making business decisions. Price Watch™ assumes no liability for decisions taken based on this information.

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.

Steel billet is a semi-finished steel product that serves as a primary raw material for producing long steel products such as bars, rods, and structural sections. Typically formed through continuous casting or hot rolling, billets are square or rectangular in cross-section and offer uniformity in size, composition, and mechanical properties.

Steel billets are widely used in construction, automotive, machinery, and manufacturing industries due to their high strength, versatility, and ease of further processing. They provide the foundation for producing steel billets, wire rods, rails, and structural components.

Their excellent workability, consistent quality, and adaptability to various rolling and forging operations make them essential for a broad spectrum of industrial applications. As a critical segment of the steel long products and semi-finished market, steel billet demand is closely linked to construction activity, infrastructure projects, and manufacturing output. Price-Watch™ monitors steel billet prices to provide businesses and industry stakeholders with timely insights into supply-demand dynamics, raw material costs, and global market trends impacting the steel industry.

Steel billet prices vary by region and market conditions. Prices are typically quoted per metric ton or per pound and fluctuate based on global supply, import/export flows, industrial demand, and currency exchange rates. Price-Watch™ provides real time price assessments across different global markets to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions.

Prices fluctuate due to changes in Chinese production, environmental regulations, seasonal smelter maintenance, feedstock availability, and demand from pharmaceuticals, electronics, and alloys. Exchange rates, logistics costs, and global economic conditions also influence trends.

Major consumers include pharmaceuticals, electronics, metallurgy, chemical & pigment industries, and research/specialty materials. Price-Watch™ analyses demand patterns across all these industries.

Steel billets are semi-finished products of the steelmaking process, typically obtained through continuous casting or ingot casting of molten steel. They are usually made from low to medium carbon steel and serve as the primary raw material for rolling into finished products such as steel billets, rods, and structural sections. High-quality steel billets are produced through refining processes including deoxidation, alloying, and controlled solidification to ensure uniform chemical composition and mechanical properties. Billets are typically rectangular or square in cross-section and are further processed through hot rolling, forging, or extrusion to produce a wide range of structural and engineering products.

China is the world’s largest exporter. Export volumes vary with domestic policies, environmental regulations, and international demand. Price-Watch™ tracks production levels, export flows and trade patterns to help businesses understand global supply chains and identify sourcing opportunities.

Supply generally meets demand, but disruptions may occur due to smelter shutdowns, environmental restrictions, or spikes in industrial consumption. Price-Watch™ monitors these supply demand imbalances to alert the market about potential shortages or surpluses.

Steel billet is graded by purity: industrial grade (Q235 (100*100mm), 100*100mm), and ultra pure specialty forms. Higher purity grades cost more due to extra refining. Price-Watch™ provides separate price assessments for each grade to ensure market transparency.

When demand rises, for example: from pharmaceutical production or electronics manufacturing prices typically climb. Suppliers may prioritize certain customers, and lead times can extend. Price-Watch™ captures these market dynamics in real time.

Refining Steel billet is energy intensive. Rising electricity, fuel, or chemical costs often get passed on to buyers. This is why prices in regions with cheaper electricity tend to be lower, a correlation that Price-Watch™ analyses in its price assessments & market reports.

Regional variations arise from import dependency, shipping costs, currency fluctuations, and local demand. Price-Watch™ tracks prices across all major regions to highlight these differences.

Forecasts depend on production capacity, Chinese export policies, industrial demand, and macroeconomic factors. Price-Watch™ regularly publishes detailed forecasts that project price movements for the next 12 months based on comprehensive analysis of supply additions, demand growth in key industries, seasonal patterns, and macroeconomic indicators. Our forecasts help businesses anticipate market conditions and plan accordingly.

Yes. Accurate forecasts allow businesses to optimize purchasing, negotiate contracts, and manage inventories. If Price-Watch™ forecasts predict a price increase in three months, you might choose to stock up now or lock in long term contracts at current rates, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

Events such as Chinese export restrictions, smelter shutdowns, environmental regulations, or economic shocks can cause supply shortages and price volatility. Price-Watch™ provides timely alerts when such events affect the market.

Price-Watch™ collects data from manufacturers, distributors, and buyers worldwide to publish regular price assessments, market reports, and forecasts. Our transparent methodology and comprehensive coverage make us a trusted source for understanding fair pricing and market trends in the Steel billet industry.

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