
Rising ocean freight costs in 2025 are reshaping landed steel prices and altering procurement decisions. Access updated HRC price data (Jan 2024–Jun 2025) in 25 countries.
In 2025, steel isn’t just priced at the mill it’s priced at the port.
Ocean freight costs from East Asia have risen sharply, with some routes seeing increases of over 40%. This has directly affected how buyers assess offers, compare sourcing options, and model trade flows.
As Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese producers expand their export reach, freight is no longer just a line item — it’s a core component of the market equation.
What the Data Shows:
- Freight from East Asia to Europe and North America now exceeds $120–$150 per tonne
- 🇨🇦 Canada holds steady at $792/t, keeping imports at a disadvantage
- 🇪🇺 Spain averages $728/t (June 2025), but regional buyers are avoiding Asian offers due to delivery volatility
- 🇰🇷 Korea maintains low FOB pricing ($552/t), but loses competitive edge once shipping is factored in
- 🇲🇽 Mexico sees HRC around $745/t, absorbing redirected cargo pressure
Why It Matters:
- Landed cost now determines procurement value — not just mill price
- Local and regional producers are regaining negotiating power
- Freight is reshaping dumping risk assessments and triggering realignment in contract strategies
What’s Inside the Report
Hot-Rolled Coil (HRC) Price Dataset – Jan 2024 to Jun 2025
Includes:
- Monthly high, low, and average prices
- 25 countries, in USD and local currency
- FX-aligned values using official central bank rates
- Regional freight impact indicators
- Clean Excel and CSV files, ideal for modelling
Ideal for:
- Procurement leads and sourcing managers
- Trade law, compliance, and anti-dumping professionals
- Analysts benchmarking landed costs across markets
Instant download or guaranteed delivery within 48 hours
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