U.S. Steel Output Posts 6.6% Weekly Gain, Says Industry Data
Steel News | 2026-02-24 11:22:30
Adjusted year-to-date production through February 21, 2026, reached 13,174,000 net tons, up 4.3% from 12,627,000 net tons during the same period last year.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): U.S. domestic raw steel production totaled 1,817,000 net tons in the week ending February 21, 2026, according to the latest industry data. Mills operated at a capability utilization rate of 78.5%, reflecting improved operational efficiency and stable order books.
The weekly output represents a 6.6% increase compared with the same week in 2025, when production stood at 1,705,000 net tons and utilization was 76.5%. On a week-over-week basis, production rose 0.9% from 1,800,000 net tons recorded in the week ending February 14, 2026, when mills operated at 77.8% capacity.
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Adjusted year-to-date production through February 21, 2026, reached 13,174,000 net tons, up 4.3% from 12,627,000 net tons during the same period last year. The year-to-date capability utilization rate improved slightly to 76.7%, compared with 76.4% in 2025, signaling gradual strengthening in domestic steel demand.
Regionally, the Southern district remained the largest producer with 836,000 net tons, followed by the Great Lakes region at 522,000 net tons. The Midwest produced 265,000 net tons, while the North East and Western districts contributed 121,000 and 73,000 net tons, respectively.
The data underscores steady momentum in U.S. steel manufacturing entering 2026.
POLL
What does the recent rise in U.S. steel production primarily signal?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How did U.S. steel production perform compared to last year?
Production increased 6.6% year over year, rising from 1,705,000 net tons in 2025 to 1,817,000 net tons in the latest reporting week.
- What was the week-over-week change in output?
Output grew 0.9% from 1,800,000 net tons recorded in the prior week.
- Which region produced the most steel?
The Southern district remained the top producer with 836,000 net tons for the week.
