With the week ending on 2^nd May, cold rolled sheet prices registered divergent movements in major global markets. Excess supply along with weakening export demand in the United States had a downward pressure, leading to a price drop for cold rolled sheet. China and Germany, on the other hand, experienced stable prices, which were supported by well-balanced domestic demand and supply and negligible effects of world trade disruptions.

USA

Cold rolled sheet prices in America declined as supply exceeded and demand remain tepid, creating an imbalance in the market. Additionally, the country’s supply dynamics seemed increasingly influenced by foreign trade activity. According to initial insights from the U.S. Commerce Department, domestic availability rose above regional consumption levels, with projections indicating further supply growth throughout the year. This is indicative of the volatile nature of international trade which has resulted in increased supply of the product in US market. Demand, however, was slow due to US cold rolled sheet exports plummeting that further lowered the supply level point of demand and supply. The drop in demand is also observed particularly in big spending outlets due to the dwindling exports impacting the growth of revenues at a time.

Germany

German cold rolled sheet prices are steady. This steadiness is being witnessed following regular production and demand rates, indicating a balance market condition. On the supply side, German steel producers have been registering a uniform rate of production so that production capacity continues to match local requirements. In addition, import and export pressures have not been a considerable challenge to the market since domestic producers are capturing most of the demand without needing to do the business with foreign commodities. The steel market demand remains stable, with most sectors maintaining consistent performance levels.

China

Chinese cold rolled sheet prices have been flat, with support from a steady rate of production and firm demand, indicative of balanced market fundamentals. Chinese domestic steelmakers have kept output rates in line with domestic consumption, so that supply does not appreciably exceed demand. External trade pressures have also been light, with local producers meeting most domestic needs efficiently without over-reliance on imports. On the demand side, China's industrial sector continues to remain resilient, with consistent manufacturing activity in major industries continuing to drive consumption of cold rolled sheet.

ChemAnalyst forecasts that Cold Rolled Sheet prices in the United States will face greater pressure as inventory levels continue to rise. Additionally, German and Chinese prices of Cold rolled sheet, will be stable as demand is firm.