AISI: U.S. Steel Imports Slip in July Amid Market Shifts

U.S. steel imports edged down slightly in July, reflecting ongoing adjustments in global trade flows and domestic demand. According to preliminary figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, cited by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), total steel imports reached 2.24 million net tons (NT), a 0.6% decrease from June. Finished steel imports, however, rose by 1.3% to 1.69 million NT.

Year-to-date, overall imports have dropped 5%, while finished steel volumes are down nearly 9% compared with the same period in 2024. The finished steel import market share held steady at about 20% through the first seven months of 2025.

Key product categories showed sharp month-on-month gains. Notably, metallic-coated sheet and strip surged by 92%, while heavy structural shapes increased 32%. Tin plate rose 25%, mechanical tubing 19%, and oil country tubular goods 17%. Over the longer 12-month period ending July 2025, tin plate imports jumped 71%, line pipe 16%, and wire rods 11%.

Major Suppliers

South Korea emerged as the largest supplier in July, shipping 331,000 NT of steel—an 83% increase from June. Brazil and Canada each delivered 301,000 NT but reported month-to-month declines of 29% and 13%, respectively. Imports from Mexico surged 42% to 254,000 NT, while Taiwan added 131,000 NT, up 10%. On a 12-month basis, Canada remained the leading source with 5.64 million NT, though volumes fell 16% year-on-year.

The moderation in import volumes mirrors broader shifts in the steel sector, where U.S. demand growth is being tempered by infrastructure project timelines, interest rate impacts, and global trade competition. Analysts note that fluctuations in metallic-coated products and tubular goods align with energy sector cycles and construction trends. Trade policy uncertainties, particularly around tariffs and potential renegotiations with key suppliers, could further influence import patterns in the months ahead.

While July saw only a modest dip in imports, the shifting mix of product categories and supplier countries highlights a steel market that remains sensitive to both domestic needs and international supply dynamics.

Source: AISI