11/09/2026
🌎 Global Steel Market Update — September 2026
Global Steel Market Enters a New Phase: Demand Recovery, Price Divergence and Growing Trade Barriers
The global steel market is facing a complex situation in September 2026.
While overall steel demand remains relatively weak, some major markets are showing signs of recovery. At the same time, higher raw material costs, regional price differences and increasing trade protection measures are creating new challenges for international steel buyers and suppliers.
According to the OECD Steel Outlook 2026, global steel demand is expected to increase only modestly in 2026, while global excess steelmaking capacity continues to grow. The OECD estimates that excess capacity could reach approximately 745 million tonnes by 2028, putting continued pressure on steel producers and global steel prices.
📈 India: Steel prices continue to strengthen
India is currently one of the markets attracting attention.
Indian hot-rolled coil prices increased by around ₹4,000 per metric ton between August and early September, reaching a four-year high. Rising coking coal costs, stronger demand after the monsoon season and lower distributor inventories are supporting prices.
Infrastructure and automotive demand are also contributing to the recovery. However, increasing steel imports remain an important factor that could limit further price increases.
🌍 Global production remains active
World crude steel production also remains at a high level.
According to the World Steel Association, the 70 reporting countries produced 155.7 million tonnes of crude steel in June 2026, an increase of 1.7% compared with June 2025.
Regional performance was mixed. Asia and Oceania produced 115.2 Mt, up 1.5%, while EU-27 production increased 4.6%. North American production increased 5.0%, whereas South American production decreased slightly by 0.3%.
🚢 International steel trade is becoming more complicated
For international buyers, price is no longer the only factor to consider.
Countries and regions are increasingly using tariffs, safeguard measures, anti-dumping investigations and import quotas to protect domestic steel industries.
The OECD notes that trade measures have intensified, while the European steel market is also implementing stronger measures to address the impact of global excess capacity and imports.
This means international buyers need to pay closer attention to:
✔ Steel grade and specifications
✔ Product origin
✔ Import duties and trade policies
✔ Delivery time and logistics costs
✔ Quality consistency
✔ Supplier production capability
🔎 What does this mean for steel buyers?
The current market environment makes reliable supply and accurate specifications more important than ever.
For importers, distributors, construction companies and manufacturers, choosing a supplier with stable production capacity, consistent quality and international export experience can help reduce purchasing risks.
We continue to focus on supplying stainless steel, carbon steel, galvanized steel and color-coated steel products for international customers, with customized specifications available according to project requirements.
Reliable Steel. Stable Supply. Global Service.
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