Turkey’s scrap import prices increased this week as local steel mills booked new shipments at higher rates. Prices are now assessed at USD 360-365 per ton CFR, up from USD 350-360 per ton CFR, last week.
The upward trend is driven by rising collection costs, particularly in the U.S., where potential tariffs on steel imports have fueled a bullish market sentiment. Despite weak steel demand in both domestic and export markets, Turkish mills continue to replenish their scrap inventories.
Market analysts warn that if scrap prices keep rising while finished steel demand remains sluggish, Turkish steel mill profitability could suffer. Some mills may turn to billet purchases as a cost-effective alternative, especially with U.S.-origin scrap prices expected to increase further in March.
On the export front, Turkish steel producers have raised their offers to reflect higher scrap costs. Rebar export prices now stand at USD 560-570 per ton FOB, while wire rod offers are at USD 575-585 per ton FOB, marking a USD 5 per ton increase from the previous week.
