The global crude steel output decline deepened in December, as China, the EU and US all saw steel drops to close out 2022.

Global crude steel production in the 64 countries reporting to the World Steel Association (worldsteel) slid 10.8% on-year in December to 140.7 million tonnes. Compared to November …

The merchant slab market continues to be fuelled by flat product price increases in key importing regions, and expectations of strengthening demand and prices in currently idle markets. A relative shortage of material is also supportive, with sellers withholding material in expectation of further gains.

The Turkish slab import market …

Seaborne coking coal prices trended higher during the week ended 20 January as China’s easing of its Australian coal ban boosted sentiment. The recovery trend is following the strengthening of iron ore prices in China, remaining last week at above $120/t CFR China for 62% Fe.

Kallanish assessed premium hard …

In this week's issue: Global slabs market gets a boost from flat product price increases

• Page 3: Will the Chinese steel market return stronger or weaker from new years celebrations?
• Page 4: Will the diverted scrap cargoes from Pakistan pressure the Indian scrap market?
• Page 5: Will Metinvest start crude steel production in Europe? …