Global crude steel output down 6.5% in January 2026, Worldsteel data show

World crude steel production for the 69 countries reporting to the World Steel Association (worldsteel) totalled 147.3 million tonnes in January 2026, a 6.5% year-on-year decline compared with January 2025.

The 69 reporting countries account for roughly 98% of global crude steel output. Output trends varied markedly by region:

• Asia and Oceania produced 107.6 Mt, down 8.6% on January 2025.

• European Union (27) output fell 2.3% to 10.3 Mt, while Europe, Other (including the UK and Türkiye) rose 4.4% to 3.7 Mt.

• Africa and the Middle East posted gains, with 2.0 Mt (up 5.8%) and 4.8 Mt (up 12.6%) respectively.

• North America produced 9.2 Mt, slightly lower on the year (-0.6%).

• Russia & other CIS + Ukraine recorded 6.5 Mt (-8.6%).

• South America was down 1.2% at 3.4 Mt.

Top steel producing countries in January 2026 included:

• China (estimated): 75.3 Mt, down 13.9% year-on-year — the largest volume decline among major producers.

• India: 15.1 Mt, up 10.5%.

• United States: 7.1 Mt, up 3.3%.

• Japan: 6.8 Mt, marginally lower (-0.5%).

• South Korea: 5.6 Mt, up 5.0%.

• Russia (estimated): 5.5 Mt, down 7.4%.

• Türkiye: 3.4 Mt, up 5.8%.

• Germany: 3.1 Mt, up 15.0%.

• Brazil: 2.7 Mt, down 1.4%.

• Iran: 2.6 Mt, up 15.1%.

The broad pullback in world output in January was driven by weaker performance in Asia — particularly China — and lower production in key CIS and North American markets, while several smaller regions saw modest growth.

Source and Graphic: Worldsteel