Global Stainless Steel Output Trends Upward in 2025

Stainless Steel Output Trends Upward Across Key Regions

Global stainless steel output trends upward in 2025 as melt shop production increases by 3 percent during the first nine months of the year. The Worldstainless unit of the World Steel Association reports 48 million metric tons produced from January through September, up from 46.2 million metric tons during the same period in 2024. This growth signals stronger demand across Asia and renewed activity in the United States.

China continues to dominate global supply and contributes more than 64 percent of total output so far this year. Meanwhile, the rest of Asia adds another 22 percent and reinforces the region’s position as the world’s stainless steel powerhouse. Europe moves in the opposite direction and posts a steep 12 percent contraction as economic pressures limit industrial activity.

The United States shows a notable recovery and delivers a 9.3 percent increase with 1.65 million metric tons produced this year. This rise underscores stronger melt shop utilization and a mild rebound in domestic manufacturing. As a result, stainless steel output trends upward in several major markets despite uneven global performance.

Nickel Smelting Activity Strengthens as Stainless Steel Output Trends Upward

Nickel smelting activity, a key indicator of future stainless supply, also trends higher and adds momentum to global production. London-based Earth-i reports a 3.2 percent month-on-month rise in October nickel smelting, supported by satellite and sensor-based monitoring. The data also shows a 3.5 percent year-on-year increase compared with October 2024.

China and Indonesia continue to lead growth due to their heavy reliance on nickel pig iron. Smelters in both countries consume NPI in higher volumes than stainless steel scrap, which supports stronger primary nickel demand. Improved smelter performance in China alone lifts NPI production by 3.8 percent month-on-month.

This dual rise in stainless steel and nickel activity reinforces the market’s upward direction. Together, they indicate robust industrial conditions in Asia and improving sentiment in North America.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Stainless steel output trends upward in a year marked by regional divergence, and the data signals a clear shift toward Asia-driven supply strength. China and Indonesia continue to expand their influence through integrated NPI–stainless steel chains, while Europe faces structural headwinds. Meanwhile, U.S. melt shops show renewed momentum, and that strength may carry into early 2026 if manufacturing demand holds. Market participants should watch nickel pricing closely because sustained smelting gains often precede cost volatility across stainless supply chains.