The global steel plate market remained relatively stable in Q1 2024, with prices in most regions staying close to those seen in the fourth quarter of 2023. However, some regions experienced minor price increases. In the India and USA, steel plate prices saw modest decline, while China and UK saw price rise.
In UK, steel plate prices were supported by full order books, ongoing seasonal restocking, and a reduced interest in imports, which tightened local supply. The market sentiment in the region remained optimistic, with buyers more confident in securing material for upcoming construction and manufacturing projects.
Q2 2024, steel plate prices saw fluctuations across key markets, influenced by seasonal factors, local supply-demand imbalances, and policy-driven dynamics. In China, steel plate prices continued to decline after the Dragon Boat Festival on June 10, primarily due to a pessimistic outlook for domestic demand. Weakness in both consumption and investment sectors led to a sharper decline in steel end-use demand, outpacing production. Conversely prices in India picked by 2% in the quarter.
USA saw sharp 11% decline for the quarter followed by UK decline at 5% for the quarter under review.
Q3 2024 –Steel plate prices saw a decline across major economies compared to Q4 2023. Domestic prices in India dropped by 6%, in China by 9%, in the USA by 13%, and in the United Kingdom by 9%. The decline in India was largely attributed to the influx of inexpensive imports, which kept market sentiment bearish. In the European Union, steel plate prices also edged lower, driven by a persistent market slump as buyers hesitated to make new bookings. High inventory levels and expectations of further price declines led to reduced buying activity, further pressuring prices.
Q4 2024 – Steel plate market in Q4 2024 picked up in China. Prices in India US and Uk remained largely unchanged on a quarterly basis. The overall market sentiment in Q4 2024 was dull, with some regions seeing modest recovery, particularly in China, while others continued to struggle with oversupply, weakening demand, and competitive pricing.