Looking back to the last quarter of 2017, the average accuracy of MBR forecasts published in the Steel Market Tracker was 94% (when compared to forecasts published in the September issue). Our forecasts of European flat steel prices proved to be precise once again, with European domestic CRC and HRC prices scoring 99% and 98% accuracy respectively.

Chinese steelmakers have begun reining in output to minimise losses, but market participants said much steeper production cuts may be needed to stabilise prices.

Three-month base metals prices on the London Metal Exchange were up across the board by an average of 0.7% on the morning of Thursday November 15.

Algeria imported 2.27 million tonnes of steel with a value of $1.72 billion in the first half of 2012, according to figures recently released by the country’s customs authority.

Three-month base metals prices on the London Metal Exchange were in a steadier tone so far on Wednesday September 12, after they closed broadly lower on Tuesday amid dollar strength and rising trade war concerns.

Freight costs from Russia to Turkey for material from Rostov have edged up because of the high volumes of grain shipments, sources told Steel First this week.

The London Metal Exchange will introduce market-making programmes to enhance the liquidity of its new products and existing contracts, it said on Thursday August 20.

Recent anti-dumping cases involving Turkish steel companies should offer a lesson in the protection of domestic industries, according to Namik Ekinci, chairman of the Turkish Steel Exporters Assn (CIB).

Base metals prices had a strong start to the trading week after a solid close on Monday April 16. Two metals dominated the headlines yesterday: the London Metal Exchange’s three-month aluminium price continued its vertical surge, while nickel closed above $14,000 per tonne amid growing concerns that the United States could implement additional sanctions on Russia.

Turkish steel producers are unfairly being subjected to a host of protectionist measures by other countries looking to support their own steel mills, according to the Turkish Steel Exporters Assn.