Plate market cautiously optimistic about duration of 2026

Market sources say 2026 could be a stronger year for plate market participants than 2025 if this week’s conditions are indicative of how the rest of the year plays out.

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Participants who spoke with SMU this week conceded that demand is not “hot,” but remains steady. They said mills are beginning to iron out production issues. However, plate market sources hope to see lead times tighten up.

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Kristen DiLandro

Kristen DiLandro is a reporter for Steel Market Update. Kristen focuses on the micro and macro steel market conditions informing North American spot prices. Following her agency career in advertising, she attained an MFA in Writing from Savannah College of Art and Design. Kristen can be reached at kristen@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-221-8143.