Taiwan’s upstream stainless steel mills raised August prices, with 300-series products increasing by NT$1,500 per ton. However, the first week after the price adjustment saw chaotic market conditions and general downward corrections to July price ranges.

Sluggish overall demand and expectations of potential price adjustments from mills prompted many operators to adopt a cautious stance, aiming to minimize inventory levels and preserve cash flow.

Market participants advised steelmakers to proactively control production and avoid overproducing amid weak domestic and export demand. In response, some mills said that operating rates are already at minimal levels, though sales will be adjusted according to market capacity.