Global Stainless Steel Production Grows 5% in Q2 2025

Global Stainless Steel Production Growth in Q2 2025

Global stainless steel production increased by 5% quarter-on-quarter in Q2 2025, reaching 16.36 million tons. Compared to Q2 2024, production grew by 3.1%. This growth reflects recovery and expansion across most key regions, led by China and the United States. Meanwhile, Europe experienced a decline in output, with production falling 5.1% year-on-year and 4.1% quarter-on-quarter to 1.54 million tons. Asian producers outside China and South Korea saw mixed results with a 4.1% year-on-year increase but a 2.2% quarter-on-quarter decline.

Regional Insights on Stainless Steel Production

China remained the largest stainless steel producer, ramping up production by 3.9% year-on-year and an impressive 9.6% quarter-on-quarter to 10.54 million tons in Q2. The US also showed solid gains, with production increasing by 7.8% year-on-year and 1.1% quarter-on-quarter to 559,000 tons. Other countries such as Ukraine, Brazil, South Africa, Indonesia, South Korea, and Russia collectively boosted output by 2.9% year-on-year to 225,000 tons. These figures suggest a robust global stainless steel market with regional shifts influencing overall supply dynamics.

Stainless Steel Market Trends and 2024 Overview

In 2024, global stainless steel production rose by 7%, totaling 62.621 million tons. China led this growth with a 7.5% year-on-year increase, producing 39.44 million tons. The US followed with a 6.9% rise, reaching 1.95 million tons. Europe, including Ukraine, grew production modestly by 1.5% to 6.09 million tons. Meanwhile, Asia (excluding China and South Korea) saw a 6.4% annual increase to 7.32 million tons. These trends underscore the increasing demand for stainless steel in construction, automotive, and industrial sectors worldwide.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Global stainless steel production continues to expand steadily, driven primarily by China and the US. Despite Europe’s decline, the overall market remains healthy, fueled by infrastructure investments and industrial demand. As supply adjusts regionally, producers must focus on innovation and cost-efficiency to stay competitive. Looking ahead, emerging economies’ growing stainless steel consumption could further support global output growth in 2025 and beyond.