The US Midwest HRC index reached a four-year high of $1,220 per short ton, supported by low inventories, limited spot availability and mill outages. Lead times extended to around eight weeks, encouraging buyers to reconsider imported material. Northern European HRC also increased to €748.33 per tonne, up €37.08 month on month, amid expensive imports and scheduled maintenance at Thyssenkrupp’s Duisburg blast furnace. Italy remained weaker, with its HRC index falling to €712.50 per tonne.
