DI and MS ERW Pipe Demand to Rebound in October, Supply Tightness Looms in Specialty Grades

Key Highlights

• Price Snapshot: DI pipes ₹58–67/kg; MS/ERW primary ₹57–58/kg; secondary ₹55–57/kg.
• Demand Outlook: October demand expected to climb 8–15% as infrastructure and water projects restart.
• Supply Landscape: Overall supply stable, but high-spec ERW and uncommon diameters may see constraints.
• Industry Updates: Maharashtra Seamless wins ₹256 crore oil & gas order; Kochi water project delayed over pipe specification changes.

Current DI and MS/ERW Pipe Price Benchmarks Across Markets

Ductile Iron (DI) Pipes:

• Up to 150 mm Dia: ₹67/kg
• Above 150 mm Dia: ₹58/kg

Mild Steel (MS) Pipes:

• Primary Grade: ₹57–58/kg
• Secondary Grade: ₹55–57/kg

Pipes Demand & Supply Dynamics

Demand growth for MS/ERW pipes in October 2025 is expected to be robust compared to the monsoon lull possibly 8–15% higher than September, depending on region and project mix.

Supply will likely be sufficient across many common sizes and grades, though some tightness may emerge in:

• High-grade/specialty ERW (for oil & gas, high pressure),
• Less common diameters or wall thicknesses
• Regions with severe logistics/transport constraints

Suppliers will need to carefully manage production planning, inventories, and lead times to meet demand.

October Demand Surge Driven by Post-Monsoon Project Resumptions

• Some projects delayed during the monsoon or due to specification/administrative issues may now move forward, adding incremental demand. 
• If budgets align and funds are disbursed for schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission, AMRUT, and rural water supply, demand for DI pipes is expected to rise.

Supply Outlook: Adequate Overall but Selective Tightness in Specialty Grades

• Overall supply will be adequate, but selective tightness may occur. Major manufacturers are ramping up after slower months, though new capacity (e.g., Electrosteel’s Odisha project) is delayed. 
• New entrants such as Rungta Steel may provide regional relief. However, raw material and energy costs, logistics for large/remote orders, and specialized high-spec pipes could create bottlenecks. 
• Some suppliers may also need to rebuild low inventories, limiting immediate availability.

Market News: Key Contracts and Infrastructure Project Delays

• Maharashtra Seamless has secured an order worth ~₹256 crore (~USD 30–35 million) to supply seamless and ERW pipes for oil & gas sector operations.
• In Kochi, a water supply project faced delays due to indecision over DI pipe diameter selection. 
• The project first selected 1000 mm DI, then considered 1200 mm, before reverting to 1000 mm—causing administrative and technical hold-ups. Such vacillation in specifications can affect procurement, supplier readiness, and lead times.

Expert View: Strategic Planning to Navigate Selective Shortages

Both DI and MS/ERW pipes are likely to see stronger demand in October compared to September. While overall supply is sufficient, it is not abundant, meaning specialized products and larger diameters may face selective tightness. Buyers and suppliers should plan carefully.