AISI: U.S. Steel Imports Rise 19.5% in May Compared to April

The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) reported that, according to preliminary data from the U.S. Census Bureau, steel imports into the United States reached 2.48 million net tons (NT) in May 2025. This figure includes 1.78 million NT of finished steel products, reflecting a 19.5% and 10.4% increase, respectively, from April 2025.

Despite the monthly rise, year-to-date totals show a decline. As reported by AISI, total steel imports through the first five months of 2025 are down 6.2%, while finished steel imports have decreased 8.4% compared to the same period in 2024. Over the 12-month span from June 2024 to May 2025, total and finished steel imports fell 3.7% and 2.5%, respectively, compared to the preceding 12 months.

According to AISI’s estimates, finished steel imports accounted for 20% of the U.S. market in May and approximately 21% for the year to date.

Data shows that several steel product categories experienced notable increases in May. Imports of plates in coils surged by 70%, while sheets and strips with other metallic coatings rose by 66%. Shipments of blooms, billets, and slabs, as well as hot rolled sheets, each increased by 51%, and line pipe imports were up 48% compared to April.

Over the longer 12-month period ending in May 2025, tin plate imports jumped 79%, and line pipe imports rose 11%, suggesting sustained demand in specific industrial applications.

In terms of suppliers, Canada remained the top steel supplier in May with 405,000 NT, though this was down 6% from April. Imports from Brazil rose significantly to 401,000 NT (up 34%), while South Korea and Mexico delivered 313,000 NT and 299,000 NT, respectively—marking substantial increases of 69% and 92%. Taiwan supplied 108,000 NT, a 5% increase from the previous month.

Over the past year, Canada was the largest source with 6.1 million NT (down 10% year-over-year), followed by Brazil (4.45 million NT, down 1%), Mexico (3.37 million NT, down 16%), South Korea (2.77 million NT, down 8%), and Germany (1.22 million NT, up 29%).

According to market observers, the monthly surge in imports may be linked to restocking efforts amid fluctuating global supply and ongoing infrastructure-related demand in the U.S.

Source: AISI