In February, Asian/Chinese stainless steel has been hiked by USD 50 to 200pt in line with higher nickel cost. Taiwan-origin 304 2B base sells to Europe for around USD 4650 to 4800/mt CFR Europe, and 304 No.1 3mm for around USD 4300 to 4400/mt, CFR Europe. As the price of nickel surges to USD 41,600, USD 39,150 (3-month), UGINE & ALZ has announced steep alloying surcharge hikes: about USD 180/mt for 304, USD 220/mt for 316L to take effect in March.