- Mete Sahin, Export Manager, Colakoglu Metalurji A.S.

There used to be more trade between Europe and Turkey before the crisis, but now there are not too many chances for imports of Turkish longs to Europe. However, there is still some chance for flat products, says Mr. Sahin. The year 2012 was not the best year for international trade, because price volatility drove buyers to purchase more from 'next door' domestic producers. Another factor that decreased trade volumes is the need to keep the stocks low. In 2013 the situation will be more or less the same, or slightly better.

- Mauro Parodi, Sales Manager Coils, Duferco Commerciale

The competitive price advantage of being able to mix imported and European-made products has greatly reduced over the last years. Now steel service centers and traders work on more or less the same price level in the South Europe and have to count only on their performance: control of finance, purchase, timing, credit control, and stocks. European market players need to accept a different approach in order to be successful, says Mr. Parodi.

- Enrico Fornelli, Sales Director, AFV Acciaierie Beltrame S.p.A.

Following the last couple of years of suffering in the steel industry, something must change during 2013, Mr. Fornelli believes. Substantial growth in consumption of long products is not likely to happen this year, and overcapacity still remains an issue. One of the solutions for the steel companies might be to diversify their activities.