U.S. Raw Steel Output Sees Modest Weekly Increase, Solid YoY Growth
Steel News | 2026-04-21 05:00:30
The year-to-date capability utilization rate also improved to 77.7%, compared with 76.1% in 2025.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Domestic raw steel production in the United States recorded a modest weekly increase while maintaining solid year-on-year growth, according to the latest industry data for the week ending April 18, 2026.
Total output reached 1.848 million net tons, with mills operating at a capability utilization rate of 80.0%. This marks a 9.7% rise compared to the same week in 2025, when production stood at 1.684 million net tons and utilization was 75.0%. On a week-over-week basis, production inched up by 0.3% from 1.843 million net tons recorded in the previous week, reflecting steady operational momentum across the sector.
ALSO READ:
U.S. Steel Shipments Jump 5.1% in February- AISI
AISI Reports 5.2% Rise in U.S. Steel Import Permits
Cumulative output for the year through April 18, 2026, totaled 27.719 million net tons, representing a 5.8% increase over the 26.203 million net tons produced during the corresponding period last year. The year-to-date capability utilization rate also improved to 77.7%, compared with 76.1% in 2025.
Regionally, the Southern district led production with 823 thousand net tons, followed by the Great Lakes at 525 thousand net tons. The Midwest contributed 295 thousand net tons, while the North East and Western regions produced 133 thousand and 72 thousand net tons, respectively.
POLL
Do you expect U.S. steel production to continue its growth trend in 2026?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How did U.S. steel production perform week-over-week?
Production increased slightly by 0.3%, reflecting stable mill activity.
- What is the year-on-year growth in production?
Output rose 9.7% compared to the same week in 2025.
- Which region led steel production?
The Southern district led with 823 thousand net tons, followed by the Great Lakes region.
