Cost Analysis
Gain insights into price trends to empower precise decision-making.
Information Details
16
2026
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04
March 2026 Monthly Report (Galvanized Strip Steel + Coated and Plated Steel Sheets)
In March 2026, the North China coated‑steel market experienced volatile upward momentum as demand rebounded, with the monthly average price rising 1.5%–3% compared to February. The resumption of production in spring spurred a concentrated release of demand, while rising raw‑material costs provided support for prices. Market trading remained robust, inventories continued to decline, and overall industry sentiment improved markedly.
(1) Core Conclusion
2026 year 3 In the North China coated and galvanized steel market, prices fluctuated upward amid a recovery in demand, with the monthly average price compared to… 2 Monthly increase 1.5%-3% Spring resumption of work has triggered a concentrated release of demand, while rising raw-material costs have provided support for prices. Market activity remains robust, inventories continue to decline, and industry sentiment has improved markedly.
(2) 3 Monthly Average Quotation Details (RMB) / tons)
Category | Specifications / Model number | Reference brand | North China monthly average price | Month-over-month change | Year-over-year change | Note |
Hot-dip galvanized strip steel | 0.5*1000mm , zinc coating 80g | Shougang, Tangsteel | 4720 | +80 | +220 | C/Z For structural steel only |
Hot-dip galvanized strip steel | 1.0*1000mm , zinc coating 120g | Shougang, Tangsteel | 4790 | +80 | +230 | High-zinc-layer corrosion protection |
Hot-dip galvanized steel sheet | 0.510002000mm , zinc coating 80g | Baosteel, Shougang | 4770 | +70 | +210 | Roof envelope substrate |
Aluminum-zinc coated steel sheet | 0.510002000mm , aluminum-zinc 150g | Baosteel, Shougang | 5070 | +70 | +240 | High-weatherability anti-corrosion |
Color-coated steel sheet ( PE ) | 0.51000 C , Sea Blue | Baosteel, Guanzhou | 5320 | +90 | +260 | Conventional factory building envelope |
Color-coated steel sheet ( HDP ) | 0.51000 C , Sea Blue | Baosteel, Guanzhou | 5620 | +90 | +280 | High weather resistance type |
(3) Market Review
3 The coated steel market exhibited a trend of “stability at the beginning of the month, an upward move mid-month, and firmness at month’s end,” with the average monthly price compared to… 2 Monthly increase 70-90 Yuan / tons. Downstream steel structure projects have fully resumed work, leading to a sharp increase in orders for enclosure systems and purlins, with procurement demand rising compared to… 2 Monthly improvement 40% That concludes the analysis. Steel mills are operating at full capacity, inventories have retreated from their peak to a reasonable range, and spot supply remains tight, supporting continued price increases.
(IV) Analysis of Core Factors Affecting Prices
- Raw Material Side: Billet and Zinc Ingot Prices 3 Monthly cumulative increase 3%-5% , strong cost-side support;
- Supply and demand: Spring resumption of work has triggered a surge in demand, shifting the supply‑demand balance from loose to relatively tight.
- Policy side: Favorable policies on infrastructure and prefabricated construction are boosting industry confidence.
- Company News: Major Steel Mills 3 The ex-factory price has been raised twice in a row this month, with a cumulative increase of… 80-100 Yuan / Ton.
(5) Future Market Outlook Forecast
- Short-term ( 4-5 Month): The peak construction season, with persistently strong demand; prices are expected to remain volatile but generally firm, with a monthly increase of… 2% left and right;
- Mid-term ( 6 Month): Demand is gradually easing, and prices may enter a stable operating range.
(6) Procurement Recommendations
- Procurement: 4 Monthly replenishment is carried out in batches as needed, with a particular focus on galvanized strip steel featuring high‑zinc coatings. HDP Color-coated sheet supply, with monthly fixed-price agreements in place;
- Quotation: Project pricing is based on cost plus a markup. 3%-5% , ensuring profit margins;
- Inventory: Maintain safety stock levels for commonly used specifications to prevent stockouts that could disrupt construction, while avoiding indiscriminate overstocking.
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