Automotive production in Brazil plunged in April due to massive shutdowns stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Moreover, we intend to export 5,000-8,000 tonnes of ferro-silicon this year to North America."

Import prices for flat-rolled steel into South America were steady to slightly higher during the past week.

Tehran has imposed new limits on exports of Iranian steel, requiring exporters to secure export permission from the ministry of industry, mine and trade.

The European automotive sector has proposed a plan to help restart the crippled industry after Covid-19 lockdown restrictions are eased.

Japan's manufacturing sector is beginning a slow return to normal after Tokyo today eased Covid-19 restrictions in parts of the country.

China's logistics prosperity index hit 53.6 percent in April, up 2.1 percentage points from the previous month.

The previous record of 18 days, 6 hours and 10 minutes, set in June last year, was broken at 6:10 am on Tuesday.