The International Rebar Exporters and Producers Association (IREPAS) has reported that the global long steel market continues to struggle with weak demand, oversupply, and fierce competition, as low utilization rates persist across key producing regions.
According to IREPAS, China remains a dominant exporter, shipping around 10 million metric tons monthly, even as major markets tighten protectionist measures through tariffs and safeguards.
While prices appear stable, the market is lacking confidence, with mills grappling with thin margins and buyers avoiding restocking.
In the European Union, imports of long products have nearly halted due to CBAM-related uncertainty, reduced quotas, and higher duties. Domestic price hikes are expected by early 2026 as import options narrow.
In the United States, flat demand and new mill capacities have exerted downward pressure on prices, compounded by the ongoing government shutdown and the muted effects of recent interest rate cuts.
IREPAS warned that 2026 could be a challenging year for exporters, with global trade likely to contract further. Still, the association noted some optimism stemming from stable US-China relations and the prospect of future rate cuts.
“Protectionism has become the new normal, offering predictability but restricting trade opportunities,” IREPAS concluded.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group
