- Raipur stable though Jalna prices fall
- Weak downstream steel pressure sales
Mill scale prices displayed mixed trends across key domestic markets during the assessment period ended 17 June 2026. According to BigMint’s latest assessment, Fe 69% mill scale prices in Kandla increased by INR 100/t ($1/t) to INR 8,150/t ($86/t) DAP compared to 13 June, supported by transactions at higher offer levels. In Raipur, prices remained stable at INR 7,000/t ($74/t) ex-works, while Jalna witnessed a decline of INR 100/t ($1/t) to INR 6,400/t ($68/t) ex-works against 10 June amid sluggish buying activity and weaker bids.
Kandla: Active trades at higher levels support prices
Kandla market witnessed a modest uptick in prices as trading activity continued despite prevailing bearish sentiment in the export segment. Market participants noted that although exporters have been attempting to push prices lower amid weak international demand, sellers have largely resisted aggressive price cuts, helping maintain market stability.
A trader told BigMint, “Exporters are trying to short the market at present, but after the recent correction, such a sharp decline will take time to be absorbed. If all exporters stop buying, prices could fall further, but that is not the current situation. Transactions are still taking place at INR 7,800-8,300/t DAP, which is keeping the market active.”
Market sources indicated that inventories accumulated by exporters have slowed fresh procurement and reduced bid levels. However, the continuation of vessel bookings remains crucial for market direction. Participants believe that unless one or two export vessels are concluded in the near term, downward pressure is likely to persist.
Working price levels were largely heard in the range of INR 7,950-8,250/t ($84-87/t) DAP, with approximately 5,500 t of deals concluded during the assessment period.
Raipur: Steady domestic demand keeps prices unchanged
Meanwhile, mill scale prices in Raipur remained largely stable, supported by consistent domestic demand and regular trade activity. Transactions were concluded across a broad price range, enabling sellers to maintain their prevailing offer levels despite subdued participation from outstation buyers.
Local traders continued to replenish inventories in anticipation of upcoming purchase requirements, which helped sustain market liquidity. A seller told BigMint, “Our material is consistently getting sold at current levels, which is why we have maintained our prices.”
Although buying interest from external markets remained limited, steady local consumption prevented any significant downward pressure on prices. Approximately 5,200 t of mill scale deals were concluded in the range of INR 6,950-7,350/t ($74-78/t) ex-works during the assessment period.
Jalna: Weak steel demand drags prices lower
Jalna mill scale prices edged down by INR 100/t to INR 6,400/t ex-works amid slow procurement activity and declining buyer bids. Market participants attributed the weakness primarily to sluggish downstream steel sales, which continue to weigh on raw material demand.
Sellers reported that buyers remained cautious, restricting purchases to immediate requirements. Adding to the uncertainty, market discussions surrounding a potential increase in power tariffs and concerns over water supply disruptions to industrial and infrastructure projects have further dampened sentiment.
A trader commented that these developments could keep buyers cautious in the near term and prevent any meaningful price recovery. During the assessment window, around 2,500 t of transactions were recorded in the range of INR 6,400-6,500/t ($68-69/t) ex-works.
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