WEEKLY: China's HRC export prices surge amid firm cost supports

Chinese export prices for commercial-grade hot-rolled coils (HRCs) jumped higher during the week of March 9-13, as firm support from raw material prices – especially those of iron ore and coal – drove export prices to nearly a 5-month peak.

Mysteel's latest survey shows export prices of SS400 3mm HRC at North China's Tianjin port on March 13 were at $478/tonne FOB, up by $11/t on week and marking the highest since October 15 last year. In line with the rise in HRC export prices, hot coil offers from major Chinese steel mills also climbed, with an