Northern European steelmakers continue to push for increased selling figures. However, MEPS notes that prices for hot and cold rolled coil, across the Nordic region, were unchanged during the past four weeks.

By comparison, mill price hike initiatives were, partially, successful for coated coils. Availability of hot dipped galvanised material is restricted. Consumption by the automotive sector is strong.

In the plate market, robust demand and earlier raw material cost increases enabled producers to secure price rises, this month.

Declining scrap prices, in late January / early February, led to reductions in Danish long product selling figures. Elsewhere in the Nordic region, transaction values were relatively stable. Construction activity remains strong, with no serious disruption from the weather, so far, this winter.