Unfortunately, steel, even with higher prices, is not readily available now. On the Polish market, price increases are mainly caused by a shortage of supply. Some industries, such as household appliances, indicate the lack of raw materials as one of the main obstacles to production development.
EU steel production in 2016-2018 was "under weighty import pressure." In 2018, more than 34 million tonnes were imported, with European production falling simultaneously. Market protection measures introduced by the European Commission from mid-2018 resulted in a decline in imports, which did not bring about the expected change because the weakening steel consumption - especially in the automotive industry - and the uncertainty of demand forced steel mills to further reduce production.
During the rapidly awakening demand for steel in China in mid-2020, the steel market in Europe also began to recover. But not fast enough while imports face many obstacles because of protective instruments for steel products which significantly reduce the possibility of supplementing the deficiencies with imports. Anti-dumping duties, in many cases, exceed the level of 25% and are calculated regardless of availability.
The level of rebound in the steel market after the pandemic crisis surprised the market and companies. The dramatic rise in prices is a response to increased demand, shortages, and limited supplies.
Still, it's a good problem to have.
