The Hot Rolled Coil Price Trend is closely watched by steel buyers, manufacturers, traders, and construction companies because hot rolled coil (HRC) is one of the most widely used steel products in the world. From buildings and bridges to automobiles, machinery, and pipelines, hot rolled coil forms the backbone of many everyday industrial applications. When its price changes, the impact is felt across multiple industries. By looking at recent developments shared in the image and combining them with general market experience, we can clearly understand how HRC prices moved in Q2 2025 and why these changes happened in different regions.

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Understanding Hot Rolled Coil and Its Market Importance

Hot rolled coil is produced by rolling steel at very high temperatures, which makes it easy to shape and suitable for large-scale industrial use. Because it is cost-effective and versatile, HRC is often the starting material for other steel products such as cold rolled coils and galvanized steel. This makes the Hot Rolled Coil Price Trend an early indicator of broader movements in the steel market.

The price of hot rolled coil usually depends on a mix of factors including raw material costs, production levels, domestic and export demand, trade policies, and overall economic conditions. Since HRC is traded globally, regional developments can strongly influence local prices.

Declining Hot Rolled Coil Prices in China

During Q2 2025, China experienced a decline in hot rolled coil prices. According to the data shown, prices fell from around $506 per metric tonne in Q1 to approximately $492.7 per metric tonne in Q2, marking a decline of about 2.63%. This downward movement was mainly driven by rising trade tensions, increased domestic production, and weak export demand.

Chinese steel mills increased output earlier in the year, which led to oversupply in the domestic market. When supply grows faster than demand, competition among sellers intensifies, often forcing prices down. At the same time, export opportunities became more limited due to higher tariffs in the United States and reduced quotas in Europe. As a result, Chinese exporters had to target alternative markets, often accepting lower margins to maintain shipment volumes.

This situation created pressure on prices and weakened overall market sentiment. Many market participants expected prices to remain under pressure unless production cuts were introduced to restore balance between supply and demand. This part of the Hot Rolled Coil Price Trend highlights how oversupply and trade barriers can quickly affect pricing in even the largest steel-producing country.

Trade Tensions and Market Uncertainty in Asia

The Asian steel market entered Q2 2025 under the shadow of ongoing trade disputes, especially between the United States and China. New tariffs and protectionist measures increased uncertainty for both buyers and sellers. This uncertainty often leads to cautious purchasing behavior, as buyers avoid long-term commitments and focus only on immediate needs. Such behavior further weakens demand and contributes to price declines.

In China’s case, even stable raw material costs could not fully offset the impact of oversupply and trade-related challenges. As a result, the Hot Rolled Coil Price Trend in the region remained soft throughout the quarter.

Strong Price Growth in the United States

In contrast to China, the United States experienced a strong increase in hot rolled coil prices during Q2 2025. Prices rose by about 6.75% over the quarter. This upward trend was supported by tight domestic supply, active restocking by buyers, and successful price hikes announced by major steel producers.

U.S. steel mills benefited from limited import competition due to existing trade barriers and tariffs. With fewer imported alternatives available, domestic producers were able to maintain better control over pricing. Strong demand from infrastructure projects and manufacturing also supported the market. Government-backed infrastructure initiatives played a key role in sustaining steel consumption.

Buyers, concerned about future supply bottlenecks and rising raw material costs, accepted higher prices and increased purchases. This positive sentiment pushed prices to their highest levels for the year, showing how controlled supply and stable demand can strengthen the Hot Rolled Coil Price Trend.

UK Market Sees Moderate Price Increase

The United Kingdom also recorded a price increase in hot rolled coil during Q2 2025, with prices rising by around 3.57%. This increase was supported by steady demand from the automotive and manufacturing sectors, along with higher input costs faced by steel producers.

While overall demand remained moderate, supply management by mills helped prevent excessive availability in the market. In some cases, buyers faced challenges in securing urgent HRC supplies due to regional disruptions, which added upward pressure on prices.

Regulatory changes and new import taxes also influenced buyer behavior. Many buyers chose to secure material in advance to avoid potential price increases later. Despite these factors, buyers remained cautious and avoided overstocking due to ongoing economic uncertainty. This resulted in a balanced but slightly positive Hot Rolled Coil Price Trend in the UK.