- Mills remain cautious amid weak demand
- Geopolitical uncertainty clouds vessel inflows
Ship-breaking melting scrap prices in Alang, Gujarat, remained stable on 11 July, with HMS (80:20) assessed at INR 34,000/t ($356/t) ex-yard. Prices continued to draw support from restricted availability of processed scrap, as persistent monsoon rainfall slowed ship-cutting operations across recycling yards. Market participants said supply remained controlled despite subdued buying interest from secondary steel mills, preventing any downside in prices.
The broader ship recycling market also remained cautious. The renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have increased uncertainty over vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz, while the ongoing monsoon continues to constrain recycling activity across the Indian subcontinent. Although Alang retains the region’s largest recycling capacity and remains the most competitively priced destination, vessel arrivals and recycling decisions could be delayed amid heightened freight and oil market volatility.
Gujarat market update
The stability in Alang scrap prices contrasted with mixed trends in Gujarat’s finished steel market. Bhavnagar billet prices increased by INR 100/t day on day to INR 40,000/t DAP, reflecting limited spot availability, while Ahmedabad rebar prices remained unchanged at INR 45,000/t ex-works as construction demand continued to lack momentum.
Mandi market update
In northern India, market sentiment remained weak. Billet prices in Mandi Gobindgarh declined by INR 150/t to INR 42,000/t DAP, while HMS (80:20) melting scrap prices were stable at INR 34,000/t DAP. Rebar prices also held steady at INR 46,800/t ex-works, indicating cautious procurement by rolling mills amid slow downstream demand.
Outlook
Alang scrap prices are expected to remain range-bound in the near term. Monsoon-related disruptions are likely to keep processed scrap supply tight, providing underlying price support. However, weak steel consumption and cautious mill buying are expected to limit any significant upside. Market participants will also closely monitor developments in the Middle East, as any further disruption to shipping routes or higher crude oil prices could influence vessel recycling flows and sentiment across South Asian recycling markets.
Leave a Reply