New Alloy Surcharges To Boost Stainless Steel Prices

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By Chris Shaw

Stainless steel prices fell in most global markets in January but according to industry consultant MEPS it should not take long for values to once again pick up on the back of changes to alloy surcharge levels.

MEPS notes more countries are considering introducing alloy surcharges, with Asian producers in China, Taiwan and South Korea in particular all considering such a change to their systems.

The current situation in Europe is somewhat confusing as Spanish producer Acerinox has one surcharge system while the other major regional markets have a different system, though as MEPS reports Acerinox is considering moving into line with the other markets.

This would simplify the surcharge system across the EU as MEPS points out surcharges in Spain increased in January while falling elsewhere in Europe, a trend expected to reverse this month with positive implications for stainless prices generally.

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