Asia
In the first half of 2025, the price trend for galvanized plain sheet in Asia showed modest improvement, supported by gradually recovering demand from construction and automotive sectors. During January, prices remained mostly stable, influenced by cautious buying ahead of the Lunar New Year and weather-related slowdowns in China.
As the quarter progressed, sentiment improved slightly due to a more stable macroeconomic outlook and limited supply stemming from stricter environmental controls. March closed with mild gains, though demand remained uneven.
However, by Q2, rising zinc prices and persistent weakness in downstream sectors such as infrastructure and structural components kept sheet prices under pressure. Seasonal rains and extreme heat in South China further reduced construction activity, weakening buying interest and contributing to underutilized production capacity.
Europe
In Europe, galvanized plain sheet prices rose gradually through Q1’25, driven by improving confidence and tight supply conditions. Producers successfully pushed for price increases early in the year, although market traction was slow at first due to regulatory concerns and subdued demand. As Q1 advanced, supply constraints, stronger booking activity, and anticipated reductions in imports helped support prices.
However, the second quarter brought more cautious trading, as real demand remained soft—especially from construction and automotive sectors. Ongoing labour shortages and slower project execution rates limited the pace of recovery. Despite these challenges, reduced import volumes and protective trade measures helped maintain relatively firm pricing.
North America
In North America, galvanized plain sheet prices followed a strong upward trend during the first half of the year. Q1 was marked by renewed momentum in the construction and manufacturing industries, along with adjustments by key producers that supported higher price levels.
Raw material cost increases and resilient demand from sectors like automotive helped sustain this growth. While buyers remained wary of geopolitical and tariff uncertainties, most showed a willingness to secure supply amidst tightening inventories. By Q2, despite some logistical challenges and input cost concerns, pricing held firm as overall market sentiment stayed optimistic.