France Increases Steel Production by 10.4% in March 2025

French Steel Production Sees Significant Growth

In March 2025, French steelmakers boosted steel production by 10.4% compared to the same month in 2024, reaching 921 thousand tons. This growth marks a major achievement, as France now ranks 18th globally in steel production, according to the WorldSteel Association. The country’s steel industry also showed a 0.7% month-on-month increase, demonstrating consistent upward momentum.

Year-to-Date Steel Production and Market Trends

During the first quarter of 2025, French steelmakers produced 2.59 million tons, up 2.1% year-on-year but down 3.9% from the previous quarter. Despite the slight quarterly drop, the overall performance in the first quarter reflects resilience in the face of global market conditions.

In comparison, the European Union saw modest growth of 0.2% year-on-year in March 2025, totaling 11.7 million tons. However, the EU’s production for the first quarter of 2025 decreased by 2.5% compared to the same period in 2024, reaching 32.4 million tons.

France’s Steel Production Recovery in 2024

France’s steel production in 2024 experienced a notable recovery. The country increased its production by 7.6% compared to 2023, producing 10.76 million tons of steel. This growth followed a sharp decline of 17.5% in 2023. Monthly production in 2024 averaged 896.25 thousand tons, up from 833 thousand tons in 2023.

France’s Steel Manufacturing Capacity

France hosts 11 metallurgical enterprises, including major plants like ArcelorMittal Dunkerque, with a capacity of 2.25 million tons per year, and ArcelorMittal Méditerranée Fos sur Mer, producing 2.55 million tons annually. The total capacity of these plants is 12.09 million tons per year, showcasing the country’s robust steel production infrastructure.

Conclusion

The increase in France’s steel production is a clear indication of the sector’s recovery and growth. With a significant year-on-year rise in March 2025 and strong performance in the first quarter, France is positioning itself as a resilient player in the global steel industry.