- Global stainless steel plate markets remained firm in H1’26 as raw-material costs and supply adjustments supported prices despite uneven downstream demand.
- Feedstock conditions stayed supportive, with nickel and alloy costs influencing production economics while regional supply balances shaped price direction.
- Downstream demand remained mixed, with weaker construction and manufacturing activity offset by automotive, energy and industrial applications.
Asia
In China, the prices of Stainless Steel Plate were ~USD 1,925.17/MT in April and ~USD 2,004.00/MT in June, showing a ~4.1% increase. In India, the prices of Stainless Steel Plate were ~USD 1,975.17/MT in April and ~USD 2,092.00/MT in June, showing a ~5.9% increase. Asian stainless steel plate markets remained supported by earlier nickel supply concerns and higher alloy costs. However, strong Chinese stainless production limited further price gains. Asian stainless steel melt-shop production reached 13.435 million tonnes in Q1 2026, increasing 3.3% year over year, with China accounting for 9.842 million tonnes. Higher output increased finished steel availability, while weaker exports and slower construction demand reduced upward momentum. Chinese stainless exports declined 28.47% during January-April, increasing domestic supply pressure.
Europe
In Germany, the prices of Stainless Steel Plate were ~USD 2,051.17/MT in April and ~USD 2,126.00/MT in June, showing a ~3.6% increase. European stainless steel plate markets received support from lower regional production and tighter import conditions. EU stainless melt-shop production declined 4.6% year over year in Q1, reducing domestic supply availability. Import economics also became more challenging after CBAM implementation increased costs for some overseas suppliers. However, weak automotive and manufacturing demand limited stronger price growth. Reduced industrial activity prevented supply-side tightening from translating into a larger market increase.
North America
In the United States, the prices of Stainless Steel Plate were ~USD 2,012.17/MT in April and ~USD 2,159.00/MT in June, showing a ~7.3% increase. North American markets remained comparatively firm due to controlled supply growth and lower import availability. U.S. stainless steel melt-shop production increased 2.3% year over year in Q1, while stainless imports declined during Q2. Cut-length stainless plate imports fell 27.9% from April to May, supporting domestic pricing conditions. Stronger producer selling prices and reduced import competition provided additional support despite uneven industrial demand.