Ukraine’s Hot-Dip Galvanized Rolled Steel Imports Surge 60% in 1H2025

Turkish Steel Dominates Ukraine’s Hot-Dip Galvanized Import Market

Ukraine’s imports of hot-dip galvanized rolled steel (HDG) jumped by 60% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, reaching 147,000 tons, according to research by Metipol. The surge underscores a sharp uptick in construction and manufacturing demand, coupled with shifting global trade flows. In the second quarter alone, import volumes climbed 44.6% year-on-year and 30.3% quarter-on-quarter, totaling over 83,000 tons.

Turkey maintained its position as the dominant supplier, accounting for a staggering 86% of total HDG imports—126,810 tons—an 83.6% increase over the same period last year. Meanwhile, imports from the European Union fell 11.3% to 12,690 tons. Vietnam expanded its presence with a 39% increase, supplying 3,830 tons, while Chinese volumes dipped nearly 27% to just 1,680 tons.

The sharp rise in Ukrainian HDG imports coincides with a broader increase in coated flat product imports under HS code 7210. In the first half of 2025, these imports rose 17.2% year-on-year to 263,260 tons, reflecting growing domestic demand across multiple industries.

Price Dynamics and Regional Steel Competition

Despite the higher import volumes, price competitiveness played a crucial role in supplier shifts. Turkish galvanized steel prices dipped slightly in Q2 2025, helping fuel its strong performance in the Ukrainian market. In contrast, prices for European steel products edged higher, largely due to the euro’s strength against the US dollar.

Vietnamese steel continues to enter the Ukrainian market at a premium despite offering characteristics similar to Turkish products. However, logistical reliability and trade partnerships may be influencing buying preferences more than pricing alone. Chinese HDG steel lost ground, likely affected by both pricing and trade policy constraints.

Ukraine’s total flat rolled steel imports stood at 554,050 tons in 1H2025, 16.8% more than in the same period last year. About half of these imports were coated products, indicating continued investment in construction and manufacturing sectors despite macroeconomic uncertainties.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The 60% spike in Ukrainian hot-dip galvanized rolled steel imports signals a rebound in industrial demand and infrastructure activity. Turkey’s market dominance reflects both its geographic proximity and ability to offer competitive pricing amid currency fluctuations. As regional dynamics evolve, Vietnam’s rising share and China’s decline will be key indicators to watch. For stakeholders in steel and coatings, this shift underscores the need to monitor not only pricing trends but also geopolitical and logistical developments shaping global trade.