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| US steel imports |
Significant Drop in US Rolled Steel Imports in August 2025
The US steel imports decline continued in August 2025 as rolled steel imports fell 16.8% month-on-month to 1.402 million tons. Total steel imports, including rolled and semi-finished products, also dropped 16.8% to 1.86 million tons. The largest import categories included oil industry products, hot-dip galvanized steel, wire rod, and cold-rolled coil. Finished steel accounted for 75.2% of total imports that month.
Year-to-Date Decline and Key Import Sources
From January to August 2025, the US steel imports decline reached 10.6% year-on-year for rolled products, totaling 13.897 million tons. Total steel imports dropped 7% to 18.729 million tons. Canada, Brazil, and Mexico remained the main suppliers, although imports from these countries decreased by 24.5%, 6.9%, and 2.7% respectively. Notably, oil industry steel products increased 17.4% year-on-year, contrasting with declines in hot-dip galvanized and cold-rolled flat products.
Production Trends and Global Context
US steel production declined 2.4% in 2024 to 79.5 million tons, while global steel output decreased 0.9% to 1.84 billion tons. Despite the recent decline in imports, the US remains among the top ten steel producers worldwide. This context underscores ongoing market adjustments influenced by global demand shifts and trade dynamics.
ScrapInsight Commentary
The US steel imports decline reflects tightening domestic supply chains amid global steel market volatility. Import reductions may temporarily support US producers but rising demand uncertainty and shifting trade policies will shape future flows. Close monitoring of source countries’ export strategies remains critical.
