Prices for stainless steel in Europe are anticipated to keep increasing over the next few weeks and months, and delivery times may also be extended.

The expected price increase is linked to renewed rises in alloy surcharges and the new successor measure to the EU safeguard, which is scheduled to start on July 1, 2026. 

In addition, major EU stainless steel producers have reportedly already closed their order books, a situation that could further extend delivery times. 

European nickel prices had moved above US$19,000 per ton at the end of April before stabilizing during May.