According to the latest statistics, crude steel production in 71 countries and regions around the world reached 151.2 million tons in October 2024, a year-on-year increase of 0.4%. Production changes in various continents and country groups reveal structural adjustments and market demand trends within the steel industry. So what impact does this have on hot rolling market changes?
- How does crude steel affect steel market prices?
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Market Opportunities for Hot Rolled Steel and Other Steel Materials
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Market trends and industry insights from Promisteel
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How to contact us?
First of all , let's look at the following table:
| Region | Crude Steel Production (Million Tons) | Year-on-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Africa | 2.0 | -0.4% |
| Asia and Oceania | 110.3 | +0.9% |
| EU (27 countries) | 11.3 | +5.7% |
| Other European Countries | 3.4 | -6.2% |
| Middle East | 5.0 | +5.4% |
| North America | 8.8 | -3.6% |
| Russia, CIS, and Ukraine | 6.7 | -12.2% |
| South America | 3.8 | +7.2% |
The top ten countries in crude steel production In October 2024,
| Countries | Crude Steel Production (Million Tons) | Year-on-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| China | 81.88 | +2.9% |
| India | 12.5 | +1.7% |
| Japan | 6.9 | -7.8% |
| United States | 6.6 | -2.0% |
| Russia | 5.6 | -15.2% |
| South Korea | 4.5 | -18.3% |
| Germany | 3.2 | +14.7% |
| Turkey | 3 | +0.7% |
| Brazil | 3.1 | +16.2% |
| 3 | -1.9% |
The increase in crude steel production significantly impacts the steel industry, particularly the export of raw materials like hot-rolled steel. Here's how:
1. Greater Export Opportunities
Higher Output, More Supply: With increased crude steel production, countries can export more semi-finished products, such as hot-rolled coils. This benefits steel-exporting nations, allowing them to meet rising global demand, particularly in growing markets like Southeast Asia and Africa.
Competitive Pricing: More production often leads to economies of scale, potentially lowering costs. Exporters of hot-rolled steel may gain a competitive edge in price-sensitive markets.
2. Market Dynamics Shift
Export Dependencies: Countries reliant on crude steel exports could see their trade balances improve with increased production. Conversely, import-heavy countries may reduce dependency as local supply catches up.
Regional Export Focus: For example, Europe and South America, with notable growth in crude steel production, might intensify exports of hot-rolled steel, competing with major producers like China.
3. Impact on Pricing
Balancing Supply and Demand: Higher production could stabilize or even lower prices for hot-rolled steel in international markets, especially if supply outpaces demand growth.
Price Volatility Risk: Conversely, if demand does not align with the increase in crude steel, overproduction could lead to price wars or surplus inventory, affecting profit margins.
Market Opportunities for Hot Rolled Steel and Other Steel Materials
Demand is Picking Up Again:
Think of all the infrastructure projects popping up-new roads, bridges, and buildings. Industries like automotive and renewable energy are also ramping up production. This means more steel is needed, and producers are stepping up to meet that demand.
Supply Chains Are Back on Track:
Remember the chaos in shipping and materials during recent years? That's now settling. Steelmakers have figured out smarter ways to get raw materials and keep production running smoothly. It's not perfect, but way better than before.
Some high-end steel products have become new high-demand areas:
Industry insiders said that there is still a large demand gap for high-performance electrical steel, high-strength, high-toughness, high-corrosion-resistant, and high-environment-resistant steel products.
Demand for shipbuilding thin plates, electrical steel and structural steel materials, wear-resistant steel, etc. has increased

Market trends and industry insights from Promisteel
- Regional supply and demand dynamics
Asia continues to dominate global crude steel production, while South America, as an emerging market, has significant growth potential.
The green transformation in Europe and North America has brought about diversified demands for product quality and services.
- Service value of Promisteel
In response to the market needs of different regions, Promisteel provides customized solutions, including hot-rolled steel, cold-rolled steel and silicon steel, to ensure that the products comply with international standards.
With the help of global supply chain layout, Promisteel can optimize delivery time and create added value for customers.





