China Steel Corporation (CSC), a leading carbon steel producer in Taiwan, announced price increases for its May domestic steel plates yesterday (April 15). Among them, hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel products rose by NT$1,200 per ton, while other plates increased by NT$1,000.

Besides, special project rates for pickled and cold-rolled steel jumped by NT$1,500 per ton, surpassing the NT$1,200 hike for hot-rolled steel products.

Rising raw material costs, Middle East tensions, and upward price adjustments from Baosteel and Formosa Ha Tinh Steel drove this decision. Market participants expressed surprise at the steeper increases for pickled steel.

Furthermore, potential changes to project allocation ratios may further elevate procurement costs. In response, distribution prices already reflect additional increases of NT$300 to 500 per ton.