In February, Asian/Chinese stainless steel has been hiked by US$50 to 200 per ton in line with higher nickel cost.

As for now, Taiwan-origin 304 2B base sell to Europe around US$4,650 to 4,800/mt CFR EUROPE, and 304 No.1 3mm around US$4,300 to 4,400/mt, CFR Europe.

As the price of nickel surging to US$41,600 (cash), US$39,150 (3-month), UGINE & ALZ has announced steep alloying surcharge hikes: about US$180/mt for 304, US$220/mt for 316L to take effect in March.

All Asian mills/coil service centers have stopping offering this week in anticipating the coming long Chinese Lunar New Year Holidays (Feb. 17~25th).

As Asian stainless prices are on a monthly basis to be set up by the end of each month, it's now being speculated that Taiwan-origin mills will probably follow suit with around US$180 to 200/ton price hike to March's new opening price.