Latest International Trends and Critical News in the Stainless Steel Sector

Fluctuations in Stainless Steel Market Prices

304 Stainless Steel Price Rebounds: Since March 2025, the price of 304 stainless steel has risen significantly, with cold and hot-rolled prices increasing by 100 yuan/ton, mainly driven by nickel price fluctuations and a recovery in market demand.

Adjustments in 201 and 430 Stainless Steel Prices: The price of 201 cold-rolled stainless steel initially rose and then fell, while the price of 430 cold-rolled stainless steel increased slightly by 50 yuan/ton, with hot-rolled prices remaining generally stable.

International Conferences Focus on the Future of the Stainless Steel Industry

27th International Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel New Energy Industry Conference: Scheduled for March 26-28, 2025, in Xiamen, Fujian, with the theme "Setting Sail from Xiamen, Chromium-Nickel Re-ignites." The conference will explore resource allocation, green transformation, and market trends in the chromium-nickel stainless steel new energy industry, attracting over 600 global enterprises.

2025 South China Stainless Steel Conference: To be held on March 25-26 in Dongfang City, Hainan, focusing on opportunities and challenges in the stainless steel industry, including technological innovation, green production, and international market expansion.

Nickel Price Volatility and Indonesia's Policy Impact

Rising Nickel Prices: On March 17, 2025, LME nickel prices increased by $85 to $16,550/ton, driven by Indonesia's nickel ore export policy adjustments and growing demand from the new energy sector.

Indonesia's Nickel Ore Policy: The Indonesian government plans to restrict nickel ore exports to prioritize domestic stainless steel and new energy industry needs, which may further push up global nickel prices.

China's Stainless Steel Market Dynamics

Inventory Changes: As of March 12, 2025, Foshan's stainless steel inventory stood at 428,800 tons, a decrease of 1,100 tons from the previous week, indicating a gradual recovery in market demand.

Production Growth: China's stainless steel crude steel production is expected to reach 42.24 million tons in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 5.4%, supported by economic recovery and policy incentives.

Green Transformation and Technological Innovation

Low-Carbon Stainless Steel Certification: International organizations have introduced a "low-carbon stainless steel" certification, requiring the use of over 60% scrap steel or renewable energy in production, driving the industry's green transformation.

Breakthrough in Hydrogen Embrittlement Protection: A Japanese research team has developed a new coating technology that significantly reduces the risk of hydrogen embrittlement in stainless steel, potentially expanding its application in hydrogen storage and transportation equipment.

International Trade and Policy Impacts

U.S. Anti-Dumping Review on Chinese Stainless Steel: In June 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce will initiate a sunset review of anti-dumping duties on Chinese stainless steel sheets, with current rates as high as 76.6%, potentially continuing to restrict Chinese products from entering the U.S. market.

EU Carbon Tariffs: The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will be fully implemented in 2026, increasing cost pressures on Chinese stainless steel exports.