U.S. Steel Imports Fall 2.9% in September, Despite Jump in Finished Steel Shipments

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): U.S. steel imports declined in September 2026 from the previous month, although shipments of finished steel products recorded a modest increase, according to preliminary Census Bureau data released by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI).

The U.S. imported 2.36 million net tons (NT) of steel during September, including approximately 1.64 million NT of finished steel. Total imports fell 2.9% from August, while finished steel imports increased 1.1%.

Despite the monthly improvement in finished steel shipments, imports remained significantly below year-ago levels. During the first nine months of 2026, total steel imports declined 9.6% year over year, while finished steel imports dropped 13.8%. Over the 12 months through September, total and finished steel imports declined by 13.4% and 18.5%, respectively.

Finished steel import market share was estimated at 16% for January–September 2026, compared with an estimated 18% until August.

Standard rail imports surged 187%, followed by tool steel at 116%, galvanized electrolytic sheets and strip at 95%, and railroad accessories at 55%. Over the latest 12-month period, imports of piling pipe increased 88%, while heavy structural shapes rose 61%.

South Korea remained the leading supplier in September, shipping 519,000 NT, up 21% month over month. Other leading suppliers were Brazil, Mexico, Canada, and Japan.