US Cold-Rolled Stainless Steel Prices Rise Again as Demand Recovers

In early July 2025, the US cold-rolled stainless steel market saw a noticeable price increase. After staying steady throughout June, the price of AISI 304 stainless steel jumped back to levels last seen in early May—reaching the highest point so far this year.

The main reason for the increase is that domestic steel mills raised prices twice in a row. This caused more buyers to place orders based on current stock needs, which also led to higher delivery volumes from coil centers compared to the same period last year. While the market remains cautious, the buying interest is clearly improving.

Another major factor behind the price increase is the rising nickel price. The London Metal Exchange (LME) nickel price hit a new 1.5-month high, pushing up production costs for stainless steel grades like 304 and 316. At the same time, supportive government policies in China have boosted stainless steel futures, creating a more optimistic mood in global markets.
 

Stainless Steel 316 Price Update – Q2 2025 Snapshot

According to IMARC Group, here are the average spot prices for 316 stainless steel cold-rolled coil in June 2025:
    •    🇺🇸 USA: USD 3,376/MT
    •    🇩🇪 Germany: USD 3,012/MT
    •    🇨🇳 China: USD 1,589/MT
    •    🇮🇳 India: USD 1,476/MT
    •    🇲🇽 Mexico: USD 1,426/MT

These prices reflect local conditions such as raw material costs, energy prices, and trade policies. North American prices are higher due to strong demand in medical and construction industries. Europe remains steady but may face more trade actions. Asian countries maintain lower prices due to cheaper production and operating costs.

What’s Driving the Stainless Steel Market?

Several factors are pushing stainless steel 304 and 316 prices higher:
    •    Higher nickel and molybdenum prices, which are key to stainless steel production
    •    More deliveries from coil centers, showing stronger demand from end users
    •    Government support in China, increasing futures and physical market prices
    •    Seasonal demand may rise in September, leading to further price adjustments

This combination of rising raw material prices and improving demand suggests that stainless steel prices may stay strong in the short term.

✅ YES Stainless International – Your Trusted Stainless Steel Supplier

At YES Stainless International, we supply ASTM A240 stainless steel 304 and 316 cold-rolled coils and sheets with full traceability and global export support. Our products are made in Taiwan and China, ensuring high quality and competitive prices.

Why choose us?
    •    🌍 Reliable origin – avoid anti-dumping risks and stay trade-compliant
    •    💰 Competitive pricing based on global benchmarks
    •    📦 Custom packaging, mill inspection reports, and fast delivery
    •    🛠️ Expert sourcing support tailored to changing markets

📩 Contact us today to secure your stainless steel needs with stable pricing and trusted quality.