SteelMint: India steel scrap index steady, but semis prices fluctuate

On 12 May, SteelMint's domestic steel scrap (end-cutting) index remained unchanged at INR 48,400/tonne (t) DAP Mandi Gobindgarh.

Semi-finished steel prices witnessed a slight correction in today's trading session. However, the trend did not reflect in melting scrap prices. Instead, prices remained supported on the back of the supply shortage in the spot market due to regular administrative checkings that have affected smooth sourcing of the material from the inter-state markets, a few scrap traders said.

Re-rollers said, due to falling steel prices, retailers may opt a wait-and-watch mode which may slow down scrap buying inquiries in the near term.

The landed cost of imported scrap is slightly high, so large mills are preferring domestic scrap. Currently, imported Dubai-origin HMS prices are ranging between $525-530/t. The landed cost at ICD Ludhiana is about INR 1,000/t higher than domestic prices.

The Index derives the HMS 80:20 scrap (Heavy, Med), and CR busheling scrap prices traded in the region.

Scrap Grade and Spread Calculation: (Mandi Gobindgarh)

Prices in INR/t, DAP (Delivered at Plant)

To see SteelMint's Melting Scrap Assessment, pricing methodology and specification documents, Click here

What is SteelMint Indian scrap index - SteelMint's assessment of Mandi scrap reflects the prices of different melting HMS grade generated and traded in the domestic market. SteelMint gathers and verifies information from buyers and sellers active in the physical spot market. The data obtained by SteelMint, are normalized for yield, dimensions, density, location and other terms of trade to the specifications.

Why this index? India's National Steel Recycling policy mentioned that the efficient use of scrap for steel production becomes very crucial for India as 35-40% share has been envisaged from scrap-based steel production in the journey of 300 mn t pa by 2030. This shall increase the requirement of steel scrap sharply from the present level of around 30 mn t.

Methodology - Market data, including deals, bids, and offers that meet the delivery and quality criteria are considered for price assessments. The highest importance in the price calculation process is assigned to confirmed deals (T1) where either a buyer or seller has provided details of the transaction. Deals of only reputed and trustworthy producers and trading firms are included in the price collection and calculation process. Indicative prices, confirmed bids and offers are also considered valuable for the pricing process (T2). The index has been calculated using an average of T1 and T2 price inputs.

To provide feedback on this index or if you would like to contribute by becoming a data partner, please contact - info@steelmint.com.