Railways

DI pipe prices remain firm at ₹67/kg (≤150 mm) and ₹58/kg (>150 mm), supported by strong infrastructure demand. MS ERW pipes trade at ₹57–58/kg (primary) and ₹55–57/kg (secondary). Capacity expansions by Rungta and Vibhor Steel strengthen supply, while global developments like Brazil’s anti-dumping duties influence trade sentiment.

Steel prices across Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Vizag remain stable as distributors manage inventories amid weak seasonal demand. Shree TMT achieved recognition as one of India’s top 10 steel bar manufacturers, reinforcing its leadership in quality and innovation. Market sentiment stays cautious, with subdued buying and limited scope for further price cuts.

Indian polymer markets showed mixed trends in September 2025. PET and PVC prices rose on strong packaging and construction demand, while PE and PP weakened due to subdued consumption in packaging, automotive, and textiles. Crude oil volatility remains a key factor shaping short-term price movement across polymer grades.

Stainless steel prices remain mixed across grades. 304 CR wider trades at ₹196–200/kg, while 316L HR stands at ₹350/kg. Demand is weak in the 300 series but firm in the 200 and 400 series, supported by shortages and rising PVC No.4 material demand. JSL has announced fresh price hikes.

PET bottle chip prices in China witnessed weak performance in early to mid-August, pressured by subdued market sentiment. By August 28th, average selling prices stood at USD 840/ton.

Steel prices across regions remained largely stable amid weak seasonal demand and consistent distributor inventory. The Essar Steel insolvency case resurfaced in NCLT, raising compliance concerns over ArcelorMittal-linked transactions. While manufacturers hold back on major revisions, market sentiment reflects subdued demand, restrained purchasing activity, and cautious supply management.

Zinc prices firmed across global exchanges, supported by falling LME inventories and stronger Chinese demand. While ILZSG projects a surplus of ~93,000 t in 2025, short-term sentiment remains bullish. Russian mine delays and tight concentrate supply may cushion against downside, keeping MCX zinc in upward momentum near-term.

Procurement in the primary market remains largely need-based, with stockists clearing older inventories and subcontractors showing resistance due to tight budgets. ISMB demand stays firm, driven by metro and highway projects. In the secondary market, fabrication activity has improved post-monsoon in central and eastern states, with Raipur–Raigarh mills running at 70–75% capacity. However, availability remains limited for ISMC 100 and smaller angles.

In the Chinese PE market, LLDPE averaged $1,041/ton on August 20 and $1,043/ton on August 27, marking a slight increase of 0.25%. LDPE prices also inched higher, averaging $1,346/ton on August 20 and $1,349/ton on August 27, reflecting a 0.17% rise. Meanwhile, HDPE remained stable throughout the period, holding firm at $1,120/ton.