Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend

Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on stainless steel (316) price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across North America, Latin America, Central Europe, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, North Africa, West Africa, Central and Southern Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, and Oceania.

Stainless Steel (316) Prices Outlook Q3 2025

• USA: USD 5,371/MT
• China: USD 2,132/MT
• Germany: USD 3,227/MT
• Canada: USD 4,744/MT
• India: USD 2,565/MT

Stainless Steel (316) Price Chart

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During the third quarter of 2025, stainless steel (316) prices in the USA reached 5,371 USD/MT in September. The uptick reflected sustained demand from the aerospace, medical, and high-end manufacturing sectors. Raw-material inflation, particularly for nickel and molybdenum added cost pressure for domestic producers, while import tariffs and supply-chain bottlenecks constrained alternative sources. Energy and labor costs remained elevated, and producer margins found support from steady consumption in critical applications.

During the third quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in China reached 2,132 USD/MT in September. The significant increase indicated that while domestic demand in construction and chemical processing stayed resilient, competition remains fierce and margins tighter than in Western markets. Lower global freight rates and relatively stable alloy input costs offered some relief, yet local regulatory and environmental compliance continued to add to manufacturing outlays.

During the third quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in Germany reached 3,227 USD/MT in September. Despite a slight downward trend in the prior quarter, prices held relatively firm during Q3 as industrial demand from the machinery and medical sectors remained intact. Although energy costs and import pressures from lower-priced Asian producers weighed on margins, strong niche demand for corrosion-resistant alloys supported pricing. Domestic manufacturers also incurred elevated logistics and compliance costs, which helped stabilize the market price around this level.

During the third quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in Canada reached 4,744 USD/MT in September. The Canadian market reflected upward cost pressure due to feedstock scarcity, labor and energy inflation, and regional import constraints. While demand from oil and gas infrastructure and food processing equipment persisted, domestic mills faced challenges in ramping up output. The higher USD price indicates the premium paid in North American markets for advanced stainless steel grades, supported by restricted supply and import tariff protections.

During the third quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in India reached 2,565 USD/MT in September. In India, the pricing decline from the previous quarter signaled that although demand from construction, infrastructure, and pharmaceutical equipment was steady, increased domestic production capacity and import competition moderated price growth. Input cost inflation, especially electricity, freight and logistics, added upward pressure, but aggressive pricing strategies by suppliers and weaker global demand prevented stronger gains.

Stainless Steel (316) Prices Outlook Q2 2025

• USA: USD 3,376/MT
• China: USD 1,589/MT
• Germany: USD 3,012/MT
• India: USD 1,476/MT
• Mexico: USD 1,426/MT

During the second quarter of 2025, stainless steel (316) prices in the USA reached 3,376 USD/MT in June. Stainless steel (316) prices in the United States during the second quarter of 2025 experienced moderate fluctuations, primarily driven by volatility in nickel and molybdenum feedstock costs. Energy and labor expenses continued to add pressure on production margins, while regulatory and environmental compliance remained key contributors to overall manufacturing costs. Despite stable demand from industries such as construction, medical equipment, and marine applications, minor supply chain delays and import-related uncertainties introduced short-term price variability. Overall, the market maintained a firm sentiment, with prices closely aligned to raw material movements and steady end-user demand.

During the second quarter of 2025, stainless steel (316) prices in China reached 1,589 USD/MT in June. Stainless steel (316) prices in China during Q2 2025 exhibited moderate variability, primarily driven by fluctuations in the costs of key raw materials, such as nickel and molybdenum. Increased electricity and environmental compliance costs in major production hubs added further pressure on manufacturing expenses. While domestic demand from construction, machinery, and chemical sectors remained steady, intermittent supply chain constraints and changes in export policy contributed to minor disruptions.

During the second quarter of 2025, stainless steel (316) prices in Germany reached 3,012 USD/MT in June. Stainless steel (316) prices experienced modest fluctuations, influenced by variable costs of alloying elements. Rising energy prices, particularly electricity and natural gas, added to production costs across key steel-producing regions. Industrial demand from sectors such as automotive, engineering, and infrastructure remained consistent, supporting overall pricing stability. Despite these factors, the market maintained a stable tone, with prices closely tracking changes in input costs and operational overheads.

During the second quarter of 2025, stainless steel (316) prices in India reached 1,476 USD/MT in June. Stainless steel (316) prices showed fluctuations, with minor changes driven by volatility in raw material costs. Domestic production was steady, supported by consistent demand from the construction, industrial equipment, and pharmaceutical sectors. Rising electricity tariffs and freight charges impacted manufacturing margins, while input cost variability influenced procurement strategies.

During the second quarter of 2025, stainless steel (316) prices in Mexico reached 1,426 USD/MT in June. Stainless steel (316) prices exhibited moderate fluctuations during Q2 2025, primarily driven by changes in imported feedstock costs and global nickel price trends. The import dependency for high-grade raw materials occasionally caused localized price fluctuations, although domestic consumption helped maintain market balance. Demand from the automotive, oil and gas, and construction industries remained firm, while energy and logistics expenses contributed to the overall production cost dynamics.

Stainless Steel (316) Prices Outlook Q1 2025

• USA: USD 5560/MT
• China: USD 2190/ MT
• Germany: USD 3442/MT
• Canada: USD 4640/MT
• India: USD 2568/ MT

During the first quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in the USA reached 5560 USD/MT in March. Prices increased due to higher import duties on steel. As 316 is necessary for high-spec sectors, there was little room for substitution, and demand remained stable. Supply was constrained as buyers scrambled to acquire inventory before tariff deadlines. Specialty production rose in domestic mills, but shortages in supply caused by import restrictions raised prices and kept the market under pressure.

During the first quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in China reached 2190 USD/MT in March. As per the stainless steel (316) price chart, prices were regularly changed by manufacturers to account for growing input costs, especially for nickel and molybdenum. When compared to other grades, 316's strong alloy content resulted in higher scrap values. By March, the Chinese stainless steel industry was experiencing strong downstream demand and supply chain challenges, which were reflected in declining stocks and longer production schedules.

During the first quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in Germany reached 3442 USD/MT in March. The market had modest increases, which were restrained by trade restrictions and continuing anti-dump investigations. The steady demand for imports was supported by the limited local supply of specialized grades. Due to its exceptional resistance to corrosion, the alloy was used consistently in the marine and chemical processing industries.

During the first quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in Canada reached 4640 USD/MT in March. The market experienced a notable price increase. Demand for domestic suppliers hiked as a result of restricted imports and higher levies on foreign steel. Throughout the quarter, prices continued to rise as a result of supply not keeping up with demand, despite Canadian mills' efforts to elevate specialized production.

During the first quarter of 2025, the stainless steel (316) prices in India reached 2568 USD/MT in March. Prices in India increased due to rising raw material costs and ongoing industrial demand. Besides, critical industries like petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals had strong demand. Moreover, the Indian market's ongoing higher pricing momentum was facilitated by the tighter supply and demand balance.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of FOB and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing stainless steel (316) prices.

Europe Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend

Q3 2025:

In Q3 2025, the stainless steel (316) price index showed a moderate stabilization of pricing across Europe, with pressures from lower-cost imports and slower downstream demand offset by elevated alloy feedstock and energy costs. Manufacturers faced margin squeeze from persistently high electricity and natural-gas tariffs, while buyers delayed purchases awaiting further clarity on global trade flows. Niche demand in sectors such as medical equipment and offshore facilities provided some support, but overall sentiment was cautious. Import competition from Asia remained a key driver, compelling European mills to maintain production discipline and defend margins.

Q2 2025:

In Europe, stainless steel (316) prices remained broadly stable, with minor fluctuations influenced by changing input costs. Energy prices across the region continued to impact production expenses, while environmental compliance and operational costs added pressure on manufacturers. Demand from end-use industries, such as automotive, construction, and food processing, remained consistent, supporting a balanced pricing environment.

Q1 2025:

As per the stainless steel (316) price index, active anti-dumping investigations and regulatory uncertainty held back market progress. However, due to their unique corrosion-resistant qualities, demand for premium-grade alloys like 316 stayed steady. Stable pricing was supported by core businesses, including chemical processing and marine engineering, which continued to drive consistent consumption.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed stainless steel (316) price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend

Q3 2025:

In Q3 2025, the stainless steel (316) price index in North America rose on tighter feedstock supply and favorable tariff protections, but demand growth remained uneven across sectors. Softening in certain downstream markets, such as construction was balanced by strength in industrial and food-processing applications. Import barriers and higher local production costs (including labor and energy) contributed to upward price momentum. Mill announcements of base-price increases signaled supplier confidence, yet uncertainty in broader macro conditions kept buyers focused on inventory management rather than aggressive restocking.

Q2 2025:

Stainless steel (316) prices in North America experienced mild fluctuations, primarily driven by variable costs of key alloying elements. Energy and labor costs remained elevated, influencing overall production expenses. Demand from key sectors, such as construction, medical devices, and food processing equipment, remained steady, contributing to a balanced market environment. However, occasional supply chain delays and import-related uncertainties added brief volatility.

Q1 2025:

The market saw significant price hikes. Widespread import taxes on steel and aluminum goods were the main cause of this increase. Industries that depended on 316's performance qualities rushed to acquire inventory prior to the implementation of the regulation in March, anticipating limitations. Capacity constraints prevented the complete offsetting of supply shortages, even with improving output from nearby mills. Unlike more interchangeable stainless grades, the market for 316 was mainly unaffected by price variations due to its important function in demanding situations. The grade's crucial industrial relevance was reflected in the pricing trend.

Specific stainless steel (316) historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend

Q3 2025:

The report explores the stainless steel (316) trends and stainless steel (316) chart in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

Q2 2025:

As per the stainless steel (316) price chart, the prices in the Middle East and Africa fluctuated due to a complex interplay of factors, primarily driven by supply chain disruptions, seasonal demand shifts, and geopolitical influences.

Q1 2025:

The report explores the stainless steel (316) trends and stainless steel (316) price chart in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

In addition to region-wise data, information on stainless steel (316) prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend

Q3 2025:

During Q3 2025, stainless steel (316) price levels in the Asia Pacific region rose modestly as input cost inflation (particularly nickel and chromium) fed into production expenses, while downstream demand in construction, marine and chemical processing remained steady. Oversupply concerns and export discounting continued to restrain strong price gains, especially in China and neighboring markets. Environmental regulation and energy cost escalation in regional mills added upward cost pressure, yet competitive regional competition kept widespread price spikes in check.

Q2 2025:

In the Asia-Pacific region, stainless steel (316) prices exhibited moderate variability, primarily influenced by fluctuations in the costs of nickel and molybdenum. Key producing countries, such as China, India, and Japan, experienced steady demand from the construction, marine, and manufacturing sectors, which supported price stability. Regional energy cost differences and environmental regulations in certain markets impacted production costs, while export dynamics led to occasional price fluctuations.

Q1 2025:

The market saw a slow increase in prices. Due to its higher molybdenum content, this grade exhibited more stable pricing behavior. Manufacturers, particularly in China, frequently revised their prices in response to rising input costs, which were spurred by firming nickel and molybdenum pricing. Besides, due to longer lead times and reduced inventory levels across the region's production facilities, spot trading began to show signs of optimism by the end of March.

This stainless steel (316) price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend

Q3 2025:

Latin America's stainless steel (316) market is predominantly influenced by its rich natural reserves, particularly in countries like Chile and Brazil. However, political instability and inconsistent regulatory frameworks can lead to significant volatility in stainless steel (316) prices.

Q2 2025:

Stainless steel (316) prices displayed moderate fluctuations, primarily influenced by imported raw material costs. Regional production capacities remained limited, making local markets vulnerable to global price fluctuations and currency exchange rate variations. Demand from sectors such as construction, food processing, and oil and gas remained stable, helping to maintain an overall pricing balance.

Q1 2025:

Latin America's stainless steel (316) market is predominantly influenced by its rich natural reserves, particularly in countries like Chile and Brazil. However, political instability and inconsistent regulatory frameworks can lead to significant volatility in stainless steel (316) prices. Infrastructure challenges and logistical inefficiencies often impact the supply chain, affecting the region's ability to meet international demand consistently. Moreover, the stainless steel (316) price index, economic fluctuations, and currency devaluation are critical factors that need to be considered when analyzing stainless steel (316) pricing trends in this region.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Stainless Steel (316) Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Stainless Steel (316) Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the stainless steel (316) market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of stainless steel (316) at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed stainless steel (316) prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting stainless steel (316) pricing, such as the dynamics of supply and demand, geopolitical influences, and sector-specific developments, are thoroughly explored. This comprehensive report helps stakeholders stay informed with the latest market news, regulatory updates, and technological progress, facilitating informed strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Stainless Steel (316) Industry Analysis

The global stainless steel (316) market size reached USD 25.43 Billion in 2025. By 2034, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 37.0 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 4.24% during 2026-2034. The market is primarily driven by the increasing infrastructure investment, demand for corrosion-resistant alloys in chemical processing, marine and medical applications, and supply pressures from key alloying elements such as nickel and molybdenum.

Latest developments in the stainless steel (316) industry:

• January 2025: Aperam S.A. finalized its earlier-announced purchase of Universal Stainless & Alloy Products through an all-cash deal valued at USD 45.00 per share. Initially revealed on October 17, 2024, and approved by Universal’s shareholders on January 15, 2025, the transaction united Aperam’s global strength in stainless and specialty steel manufacturing with Universal’s advanced capabilities in producing high-performance steels for aerospace and industrial sectors. 

Product Description

Stainless steel 316 is a high-quality, corrosion-resistant alloy that is widely used in various industrial, commercial, and consumer applications. It is part of the austenitic stainless-steel family, which also includes stainless steel 304. However, what sets 316 apart is its higher content of molybdenum, which significantly enhances its resistance to pitting and corrosion, particularly in environments exposed to chlorides, such as seawater or aggressive chemicals. This makes stainless steel 316 ideal for applications in marine environments, chemical processing, food and beverage industries, and medical equipment. It is used in medical implants and surgical instruments due to its strength and resistance to body fluids. Besides, it is also used in construction, particularly for exterior architectural details where exposure to harsh weather conditions is expected.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of stainless steel (316) pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of FOB and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting stainless steel (316) price trend, including input costs, supply-demand shifts, and geopolitical impacts, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The stainless steel (316) price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.