December Steel Import Data Highlights Significant Increases

The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has released the latest data from the U.S. Commerce Department’s Steel Import Monitoring and Analysis (SIMA), revealing notable increases in steel imports for December. Steel import permit applications totaled 2.4 million net tons (NT), marking a 10.8% increase from November’s total of 2.17 million NT. Finished steel imports also saw a 17.7% rise, reaching 1.87 million NT in December, compared to 1.59 million NT in November. These increases suggest a strong demand for steel products in the U.S. market.

Yearly Overview of Steel Imports: Growth and Key Trends

In total, the U.S. imported 29.1 million NT of steel in 2024, a 3.5% increase compared to the previous year. Of this, finished steel imports accounted for 22.6 million NT, reflecting a 3.9% rise. Finished steel imports made up an estimated 22% of the total steel market share in December, with a slightly higher share of 23% for the full year. This uptick aligns with a broader trend of rising demand for various steel products in the U.S.

Top Steel Import Categories: Significant Gains Across Several Products

Among the steel categories, several saw substantial increases in December compared to the previous month. Hot rolled sheets surged by 74%, hot rolled bars rose by 50%, wire rods grew by 46%, tin plate increased by 46%, and plate in coils saw a 43% boost. For the full year, the most significant increases were observed in sheets and strips (up 52%), hot dipped galvanized sheets and strips (up 35%), and tin plate (up 31%). These products indicate an ongoing demand in the U.S. market for various steel products, particularly those used in construction and manufacturing.

Top Suppliers to the U.S.: Canada, Brazil, and South Korea Lead Imports

In December, the U.S.’s largest steel suppliers included Canada (513,000 NT, up 8% from November), Mexico (382,000 NT, up 36%), Brazil (293,000 NT, down 4%), South Korea (293,000 NT, up 64%), and Romania (98,000 NT, a massive 7,354% increase). For the full year, Canada remained the top supplier with 6.5 million NT, though this represented a 6% decrease compared to 2023. Brazil saw a significant increase of 18%, with imports totaling 4.65 million NT, while Mexico experienced a 16% decrease, importing 3.54 million NT.

Conclusion: Strong Demand and Growing Imports Shape U.S. Steel Market

The rise in steel imports for December and the entire year indicates a strong U.S. market for steel, particularly in finished steel products. This demand reflects growth in key industries such as construction and manufacturing, as well as ongoing global trade dynamics. The top exporting countries continue to play a crucial role in supplying steel to meet the U.S.’s needs.