AISI: U.S. Steel Imports Fall 2.9% in September, Finished Imports Edge Up 1.1%

U.S. steel imports declined 2.9% month over month in September 2026 to approximately 2.36 million net tons (NT), according to preliminary Census Bureau data reported by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Finished steel imports, however, increased 1.1% to about 1.64 million NT.

Despite the mixed monthly performance, imports remained below year-earlier levels. Total steel imports fell 9.6% year to date through September, while finished steel imports declined 13.8%. Over the 12 months through September, total and finished imports decreased 13.4% and 18.5%, respectively, compared with the preceding 12-month period.

Finished steel accounted for an estimated 16% of the U.S. market during the first nine months of 2026, while its estimated market share reached 18% in August.

Several steel product categories recorded significant monthly increases in September. Standard rail imports rose 187% from August, 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 pipe for piling increased 88%, while heavy structural shapes rose 61%.

South Korea remained the largest supplier of imported steel to the U.S. in September, with shipments reaching 519,000 NT, up 21% from August. Brazil ranked second at 349,000 NT, down less than 1%, followed by Mexico at 267,000 NT, up 5%. Canada supplied 256,000 NT, down 13%, while Japan shipped 165,000 NT, an increase of 60%.

For the 12 months through September, South Korea led suppliers with 3.96 million NT, up 44% from the previous 12-month period. Brazil ranked second at 3.26 million NT, followed by Canada at 3.18 million NT and Mexico at 2.28 million NT. Vietnam supplied 1.31 million NT, with shipments increasing 22% year over year.

Source: American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI)

SUNSHINE Spotlight: U.S. steel imports fell 2.9% in September, although finished steel imports edged up 1.1%. Total and finished imports remained below year-earlier levels, while South Korea continued to lead U.S. steel suppliers, with shipments rising 21% month over month.