Railways

Demand for DI, HDPE, and MS pipes has risen sharply, particularly for smaller DI sizes, as contractors rush to book orders before the monsoon. While prices remain steady for now, supply bottlenecks and raw material delays are extending lead times. Procurement momentum is gaining strength across infrastructure and water projects, supported by fresh fund releases from government departments.

Primary TMT prices continue to soften across major regions like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Vizag, with distributors lowering rates amid muted demand. Market activity remains largely flat, with stable yet unremarkable inquiry levels. Suppliers are ensuring uninterrupted availability, while production is running with limited new orders.

Structure prices are under pressure across both primary and secondary markets, with demand slowing due to paused infrastructure projects and election-related delays. Primary mills are operating below capacity, while traders in secondary markets are cautious amid weak inquiry volumes. Inventories are building up, prompting discounts from mills.

ABS prices continued to soften across Asian markets, led by oversupply, lower feedstock costs, and subdued demand from converters. In India, prices remain relatively stable due to limited spot cargoes despite global weakness. Persistent bearish sentiment, high inventories, and cautious downstream activity suggest further price erosion in the near term.

Stainless steel prices continue to hold firm across all major grades. While 300 series demand is improving, supply shortages persist. The 200 series remains upbeat amid limited imports, and the 400 series is seeing rising interest. Meanwhile, ISSDA plans to approach DGTR to investigate dumping and recommend anti-dumping duties on stainless steel imports.

TMT bar prices declined across key regions as demand stagnated and distributors adjusted offers downward. Market remains adequately supplied with no disruption risks. Aditya Ultra Steel announced a major investment in solar energy to power operations, enhancing sustainability. Weak buying sentiment may push prices lower in the coming weeks.

Imported PVC K67 prices at Mundra range from ₹63,900–₹68,250/MT, varying by origin. Despite brief stabilization, April ended with a 4.7% price drop. Elevated inventories, high production rates, and weak futures continue to weigh on sentiment. The market remains bearish, with limited downstream interest and weak cost support in May 2025.

Base prices for 100x50 channels remain firm, with primary market rates ranging from Rs 54,200/MT in Durgapur to Rs 58,400/MT in Chennai. Primary mills, backed by strong infra demand and rising input costs, may raise prices mid-May. EPC contracts finalized for Q2 are driving demand for heavy sections like ISMB 500+ and WPBs, with regional shortages emerging.

TMT prices have declined across key regions as distributors respond to weak demand. Market sentiment remains cautious, with further adjustments likely if inquiries don’t improve. Supply remains stable, but sustained low demand could lead to additional price cuts in the coming week.