Europe’s stainless steel alloy surcharge of 304 stainless has decreased in July amid dropping nickel prices.

Major stainless steel manufactures lowered their prices; ArcelorMittal dropped its alloy surcharge from €1,897 to 1,676/ton and Outokumpu decreased its surcharge from €1,847 to 1,636/ton.

Purchasing activity is quiet stable, with low quantity orders. Alloy surcharges are expected to be adjusted upward in August.

On the other hand, 430 alloy surcharge has risen to €656~687 from €516~636/ton, triggered by soaring chrome prices.