With the week ending on April 25, the global cold rolled coil market presented a diverse range of developments across key regions. In the U.S., rising imports and collapsing exports are putting downward pressure on prices, presenting a challenge for domestic mills and traders alike. Germany remains a bright spot of equilibrium, offering a glimpse into how market balance can stabilize pricing. Meanwhile, China’s overproduction and hostile trade environment are shaping an increasingly bearish outlook.

USA

The US cold rolled coil price action was down due to demand failing to keep up with rebounding supply. US cold rolled coil supply conditions were influenced significantly by global trade flows during the period. As per initial statistics from the US Department of Commerce (USDOC), a significant 31% year-on-year increase over the same period last year—demonstrating a trend toward greater year-on-year availability in the domestic market. Canada continued to be the leading exporter to the U.S., exporting approximately 42,000 tons of cold rolled coil. It continued to show a 33% increase from the previous year. The year-on-year growth indicates a continuing fluctuation in foreign trade activity reflecting increase in product availability in the domestic market. On the demand side, the scene was more muted. U.S. exports of cold rolled coil fell dramatically. This softening demand was most visibly manifested in primary trade relationships. The decrease in export business was directly translated into decreased revenue.

Germany

German cold rolled coil prices are stable. Such stability is being witnessed in the wake of constant production and demand levels, signifying a harmonious market condition. On the supply side, German steel producers have been registering a constant level of production so that production capacity stays in tandem with local demand. Furthermore, import and export pressures have not posed any serious challenges to the market since domestic producers are meeting most of the demand without the need for foreign products. In demand terms for Cold rolled coil, the steel market has been supported by sustained industrial activity, which has shown stability across many sectors.

China

The prices of cold rolled coil in China declined by widening the gap between weak demand and an increase in supply. Production in China’s steel sector surged over the first quarter of 2025, amplifying the supply burden on the cold rolled coil market. Between January and March, cold rolled coil output climbed to 11.857 million metric tons, registering a 7.3% year-on-year increase, according to data from China’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), reflecting an increase in supply levels. On the demand front, the outlook remained fragile. While the domestic market faced headwinds from tepid consumption, the export environment became increasingly unfavourable. The China Iron and Steel Association (CISA) issued a warning about a possible steep decline in steel exports in 2025—potentially falling by over 20 million tons. This drop is attributed to intensifying global trade protectionism, with the United States maintaining punitive tariffs of up to 70% under Sections 232.

As per ChemAnalyst, Cold Rolled Coil prices in the United States and China are likely to face downward pressure due to the continued buildup of inventory levels. In contrast, prices in Germany are likely to remain stable, backed by consistent demand and balanced supply dynamics.