Executive Summary

This report analyzes the European market's import dynamics for cold-formed structural hollow sections made of steel grade S355J2H according to EN 10219 standard, sourced from China. Based on an analysis of trade data from 2022-2023, China remains one of the primary suppliers of this product to Europe, with stable import volumes. The key importing countries are Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Italy. Despite trade barriers such as EU anti-dumping duties, Chinese products maintain a significant market share in European construction, infrastructure, and machinery manufacturing sectors due to their price competitiveness and consistent quality.

Product Definition

EN 10219-1/-2，S355J2H

Standard: EN 10219-1/-2

Steel Grade: S355J2H

Product Description: S355J2H is a non-alloy fine grain steel with high strength and good low-temperature toughness. "S355" denotes a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa, "J2" indicates a Charpy V-notch impact energy of 27J at -20°C, and "H" stands for Cold-Formed. This product is widely used in building structures, bridges, port machinery, stadiums, and other industrial applications.

The following data is a simulated estimate based on public trade data trends and analytical reports, intended to illustrate the market landscape.

Item

2022  Estimated

2023 Estimated

Notes

180,000 - 220,000

170,000 - 210,000

Subject to market demand and inventory levels.

Total Import Volume (Tonnes)

Affected by steel price fluctuations.

Total Import Value (EUR)

Cost, Insurance, and Freight.

Average CIF Price

Major European hub ports.

Main Ports of Entry

Antwerp (BE), Rotterdam (NL), Hamburg (DE)

Antwerp (BE), Rotterdam (NL), Hamburg (DE)

3.  Analysis of Key Importing Countries

1. Germany

Driving Factors: Strong manufacturing and automotive sectors, coupled with ongoing construction activities, drive demand for high-quality structural steel.

2. Belgium

Driving Factors: The port of Antwerp is a major European steel logistics hub, with many shipments cleared here for distribution to other European countries.

3. Netherlands

Driving Factors: The port of Rotterdam, similar to Antwerp, is a key gateway. Domestic construction and agricultural equipment manufacturing also contribute to demand.

4.  Italy

Driving Factors: Industrial production and infrastructure projects fuel the demand for structural steel tubes.

5. France & Poland

Driving Factors: Stable construction markets and industrial growth.

4.  Market Drivers and Challenges

Drivers:

Price Competitiveness: Chinese-produced S355J2H tubes often have a lower ex-works price compared to European domestic products.

Capacity & Stable Supply: The massive production capacity of Chinese mills ensures stable supply and a wide range of specifications.

Quality Recognition: Many Chinese manufacturers have obtained CE marking, ISO certifications, etc., and their product quality is widely accepted in the European market.

Challenges:

EU Anti-dumping Duties: The EU imposes anti-dumping duties on certain hollow structural sections originating in China, significantly increasing import costs and representing the largest trade barrier.

Logistics & Lead Time: Sea freight transit times from China to Europe are long, with risks of supply chain disruptions.

Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism: The future CBAM may impact the cost competitiveness of products with a high carbon footprint.

Local Competition: European domestic mills (e.g., ArcelorMittal, Tenaris) have advantages in service quality, delivery speed, and customization.

5.Future Outlook

Short-term (2024): Import volumes are expected to remain stable. Geopolitical factors, energy prices, and potential changes in EU trade policy will be key influencers.

Medium-to-Long Term: With the advancement of Europe's green steel and supply chain localization strategies, Chinese suppliers may face greater pressure. Transitioning to higher value-added, more environmentally friendly products will be key to maintaining market share.

Chinese-manufactured EN10219 S355J2H steel tubes remain a significant import product in the European market, particularly for price-sensitive projects and standard specification requirements. Despite significant trade barriers, their cost advantage and mature supply chain maintain a stable market share. In the future, importers and end-users will need to make comprehensive trade-offs between cost, supply chain reliability, trade compliance, and sustainability.