AISI: U.S. Steel Imports Rise 11.2% in May, While Year-to-Date Volumes Remain Lower

U.S. steel imports increased in May from the previous month, although year-to-date volumes remained well below 2025 levels, according to preliminary data released by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) based on U.S. Census Bureau figures.

Total steel imports reached 2.117 million net tons (NT) in May, while finished steel imports totaled 1.554 million NT, with both categories rising 11.2% from April. Despite the monthly increase, total steel imports were 26.3% lower year to date than the same period in 2025, while finished steel imports declined 26.8%. Over the 12 months from June 2025 to May 2026, total and finished steel imports fell 21.6% and 25.2%, respectively, compared with the previous 12-month period.

The AISI estimated that finished steel imports accounted for 17% of the U.S. market in May, bringing the year-to-date finished steel import market share to 16%.

Several product categories recorded notable month-on-month import growth. Hot-rolled sheet imports more than doubled, increasing 128% from April, followed by plates in coils (78%), oil country tubular goods (45%), hot-rolled bars (29%) and reinforcing bars (21%). On a rolling 12-month basis, heavy structural shapes were the only major product category to post a significant increase, rising 21% from the previous 12-month period.

South Korea remained the largest steel supplier to the U.S. in May, exporting 399,000 NT, up 37% from April. Brazil followed with 331,000 NT, an increase of 54%, while Canada supplied 281,000 NT, up 5%. Imports from Mexico totaled 185,000 NT, down 1%, and shipments from Japan reached 142,000 NT, an increase of 91%.

Looking at the 12-month period from June 2025 through May 2026, Canada remained the largest foreign supplier with 3.34 million NT, although shipments declined 45% compared with the previous 12 months. Brazil ranked second with 3.227 million NT, down 28%, followed by South Korea at 2.964 million NT, up 7%. Mexico supplied 2.152 million NT, down 36%, while Japan exported 1.083 million NT, a 5% decrease.

The latest figures indicate that while U.S. steel imports recovered modestly in May, import volumes remain significantly below last year’s levels, reflecting continued shifts in trade flows and domestic market conditions.

Source: AISI

SUNSHINE Spotlight: U.S. steel imports rebounded in May, but year-to-date volumes and import market share remain below 2025 levels, with South Korea, Brazil and Canada continuing to lead overseas supply.