United States domestic hot-rolled coil spot prices remained unchanged in last week, at about US$430-452/ton or US$390-410/short ton, ex-factory price in the Midwest. But some market participants doubt that the current market prices could rise beyond the current range.

Market participants said that hot-rolled sheet market is the weakest so far, as many pipe factories to hold the purchasing activities. Even though the price rises, the sheet metal factories will also face a difficult time at this moment.