Prices for long–range and flat products in France are decreasing by about 15-20 euros per ton ($17.1-$22.0 per ton) under large contracts compared to last month amid limited demand for processing, according to Kallanish.

In the flat rolled segment, prices for black hot-rolled sheet are decreasing by about 20 euros per ton per month to 760-770 euros per ton with delivery, due to weak roll sales throughout Europe.

In the long products sector, sentiment in the secondary market remains negative amid limited demand, high costs and pressure on margins. In the domestic market, the bars are under pressure from Spanish manufacturers, who are lowering prices, while current prices in France are 320-330 euros per ton, excluding size allowances, which amount to about 410 euros per ton. Prices for high-grade products currently remain stable, which is supported by higher demand, while high-grade products of the first category are supplied at a price of 810-820 euros per ton.

Rebar prices decreased from last month's peak of 720 euros per ton to about 690-700 euros per ton amid declining activity in the construction sector and weak demand (see "Callanish" dated June 26).

Last week, work was further hampered by the extreme heat in France, with both factories and distributors confirming a slowdown in production caused by the intense heat.

Author: Natalia Kapra

Kallanish.com