Global Crude Steel Production Falls Slightly in April, Türkiye Sees 7% Growth

The World Steel Association (Worldsteel) reported that global crude steel production in April 2025 totaled 155.7 million tons, reflecting a 0.3% year-over-year decline despite regional variations and modest gains in key emerging markets like Türkiye and India.

Global Steel Trends: China Stagnant, India Surging, Europe Declining

Data from 69 reporting countries shows that China, the world’s top producer, maintained flat output at 86 million tons. Meanwhile:

• India increased production by 5.6%, reaching 12.9 million tons.

• Japan saw a 6.4% decline, producing 6.6 million tons.

• United States production dipped 0.3% to 6.6 million tons.

• Russia experienced a 5.1% decrease to 5.8 million tons.

• South Korea dropped 2.5%, with 5.0 million tons.

• Germany recorded a significant 10.1% fall, down to 3.0 million tons.

• Brazil declined 3.1%, reaching 2.6 million tons.

• Iran bucked the trend with a 4.6% increase to 3.3 million tons.

Türkiye Sees Strong April Performance with 7% Growth

Türkiye outperformed many of its global peers, posting a 7.0% year-over-year increase in crude steel output, reaching 3.0 million tons in April.

However, despite this strong monthly performance, Türkiye’s cumulative production in the January–April 2025 period fell 1.0% to 12.3 million tons, indicating lingering challenges in sustaining momentum.

Four-Month Global Output Still in Decline

For the first four months of 2025, global crude steel production totaled 624.4 million tons, reflecting a 0.4% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. The slight contraction underscores ongoing global demand uncertainties, energy cost volatility, and regional economic disparities affecting industrial output.

Modest Optimism Amid Mixed Signals

While India and Türkiye continue to show resilience, Europe’s decline in output, especially in Germany, highlights the ongoing industrial slowdown in the region. Meanwhile, China’s stagnant production signals a cautious approach amid slower domestic demand and environmental targets.

Türkiye’s April rebound, however, signals potential for recovery if domestic and export demand improves, supported by favorable energy policies and a recovering construction sector.