World Steel Production Falls 6.5% in January as Asia Records Sharp 8.6% Decline

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Global crude steel production declined at the start of 2026, reflecting weaker output across several major producing regions.

According to the latest data from the World Steel Association (worldsteel), total crude steel production across 69 reporting countries reached 147.3 million tonnes (Mt) in January 2026, marking a 6.5% decrease compared to January 2025.

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Regionally, Asia and Oceania—the largest steel-producing bloc—recorded output of 107.6 Mt, down 8.6% year-on-year, significantly weighing on global totals. The EU (27) produced 10.3 Mt during the month, reflecting a 2.3% decline, while North America reported 9.2 Mt, edging 0.6% lower compared to January 2025. Output in Russia and other CIS nations plus Ukraine also contracted sharply, falling 8.6% to 6.5 Mt.

In contrast, several regions posted year-on-year growth. Middle East crude steel production surged 12.6% to 4.8 Mt, the strongest regional gain. Africa recorded a 5.8% increase to 2.0 Mt, while other European countries outside the EU grew 4.4% to 3.7 Mt. South America produced 3.4 Mt, down 1.2% year-on-year.

China’s crude steel output is estimated at 75.3 Mt in January 2026, representing a sharp 13.9% decline compared to January 2025. In contrast, India registered solid growth, producing 15.1 Mt, up 10.5% year-on-year. The United States recorded production of 7.1 Mt, reflecting a 3.3% increase.

Overall, January data highlights uneven regional steel market dynamics shaping the 2026 outlook.