Worldsteel: Global stainless steel melt shop production rises 2.1% in 2025

The World Stainless Association has released its full-year 2025 stainless steel melt shop production figures, reporting total output of 64.2 million tonnes, an increase of 2.1% compared to 2024.

Regional Performance

Asia remained the dominant producing region, with output reaching 55.3 million tonnes, up 2.7% year-on-year. Within the region, China accounted for 40.9 million tonnes, reflecting growth of 3.6% compared to 2024.

The European Union recorded production of 5.7 million tonnes, representing a 1.9% decline year-on-year despite a stronger fourth quarter performance.

The United States produced 2.1 million tonnes, marking a solid 7.6% increase compared to the previous year.

Production in other countries — including Brazil, Russia, South Africa, Ukraine and the United Kingdom — totaled 1.1 million tonnes, down 11.3% year-on-year.

Fourth Quarter Development

In the fourth quarter of 2025, global stainless melt shop production reached 16.3 million tonnes, up 0.8% compared to Q4 2024.

• Asia increased output by 0.9% year-on-year in Q4.

• The European Union recorded strong quarterly growth of 8.8%.

• The United States expanded by 1.9%.

• Other producing countries saw a 12.9% decline compared to Q4 2024.

Overview

Total global stainless steel melt shop production increased from 62.8 million tonnes in 2024 to 64.2 million tonnes in 2025, confirming moderate growth despite regional disparities.

Source and Graphic: Worldsteel