April 23, 2025
April Market Minute 2025
Checking the Pulse of Metal Buyers in Texas
In his interactions with customers, SteelNow Customer Experience Manager Jonathan has seen some fabricators enjoying a slight uptick in activity. Even so, most continue to buy metal on a job-by-job basis.
While ongoing changes to proposed tariffs have yielded no major impact on pricing, some customers are shopping for alternative suppliers to gauge differences in pricing and availability.
Texas manufacturers expressed a mix of cautious optimism and concern, according to the March 2025 Dallas Fed Texas Manufacturing Outlook Survey. While some firms reported steady or improving conditions, many highlighted ongoing challenges affecting their operations.​
For instance, several firms reported difficulties in sourcing materials and components, leading to production delays. Labor shortages remain a persistent issue, with challenges in hiring skilled workers affecting output.​
While some manufacturers anticipate increased demand in the coming months, others are concerned about the potential for economic slowdown. Uncertainties surrounding trade policies and global market dynamics contribute to a cautious outlook.​
The Latest on Metal Prices
Aluminum prices are on the rise, with Midwest premiums doubling from 20 to 40 cents per pound. The spike comes because of renewed Section 232 tariffs—25% on aluminum imports—alongside steep anti-dumping duties on countries like China, which can top 100%.
Meanwhile, inventories across sheet, coil, plate, and long products are in short supply at both broker and mill levels, further tightening the market. Ongoing trade tensions with key partners such as Canada and Mexico are only adding to the uncertainty for buyers and suppliers alike.
Steel prices in the U.S. have jumped 30% since the start of 2025, now hovering around $946 per ton as of April 23. This has been fueled by strong domestic demand and the ongoing effects of Section 232 tariffs. While those tariffs remain at 25%, the introduction of reciprocal measures has brought a degree of market stability.
Despite pricing turbulence with other metals, stainless steel prices have remained relatively stable. This is since U.S. market is largely self-sufficient with domestic production meeting demand.
Minor increases in nickel prices have had a limited impact on stainless steel costs so far.
As market conditions shift, SteelNow is here to help you find the right material when you need it.
With a network of more than 60 suppliers, we make it easier to source steel, aluminum, and stainless—no matter how the market moves.