Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Wire, Stainless Steel (WPU10170502) from Dec 2010 to Jul 2023 about wired, steel, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Steel fell to 3,086 CNY/T on October 10, 2025, down 0.29% from the previous day. Over the past month, Steel's price has risen 2.12%, but it is still 8.70% lower than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Steel - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on October of 2025.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Pipe and Tube, Stainless Steel was 144.16400 Index Dec 2010=100 in August of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Pipe and Tube, Stainless Steel reached a record high of 169.93400 in May of 2022 and a record low of 88.60000 in September of 2016. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Pipe and Tube, Stainless Steel - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on October of 2025.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Stainless Steel in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Stainless Steel Plate in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

Track Stainless Steel 304 price trends with monthly, quarterly, and yearly data for 2024–2025. Get expert forecasts, historical charts, and regional insights to plan your sourcing.

Why did the Stainless Steel (Flat) Price Change in July 2025? The Stainless Steel (Flat) Price Index in North America registered a quarter-over-quarter decline of 5.3% in Q2 2025, reflecting a softening pricing environment driven by supply-demand imbalances and tepid downstream consumption.

Explore the factors affecting stainless steel prices and how a price chart can provide insights into market fluctuations over time. Understand the impact of raw materials, supply and demand, geopolitical events, and environmental policies on stainless steel costs. Learn how to analyze these charts for future trend projections.

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Stainless Steel Market Size 2023-2027

The stainless steel market size is forecasted to increase by 10,299.64 thousand tons at a CAGR of 3.38% between 2022 and 2027. Market growth relies on various factors, notably the increased consumption of high-strength stainless steel, propelled by its corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical properties. Additionally, economic expansion in China and India contributes significantly to market growth. As these nations continue to develop industrially and infrastructurally, the demand for stainless steel, particularly for construction and manufacturing applications, is expected to rise. This confluence of factors positions the market for substantial growth in the foreseeable future. Furthermore, the stainless steel market analysis report includes historic market data from 2017 to 2021. The stainless steel market forecast indicates robust expansion, driven by increasing demand for steel across various industries. The stainless steel market size growth is propelled by advancements in production technologies and the rise of sustainable manufacturing practices. Current stainless steel market trends show a surge in applications, particularly in construction and automotive sectors, underscoring its vital role in modern infrastructure.

What will be the Size of the Stainless Steel Market During the Forecast Period?

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Stainless Steel Market Segmentation

The stainless steel market research report provides comprehensive data (region wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD Million' for the period 2023 to 2027, as well as historical data from 2017 to 2021 for the following segments

End-user Outlook 

  Metal products
  Mechanical engineering
  Automobile and transportation
  Infrastructure and construction
  Electrical engineering





Product Outlook

  Flat
  Long





Region Outlook

  North America

    The US
    Canada


  Europe

    The UK
    Germany
    France
    Rest of Europe


  APAC

    China
    India


  Middle East and Africa

    Saudi Arabia
    South Africa
    Rest of the Middle East and Africa


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil
    Chile

By End-user

The market share growth by the metal products segment will be significant during the forecast period. The use of stainless steel in metal products provides an aesthetic appeal, extensive textures, strength, functionality, corrosion resistance properties, and ease of cleaning properties such products, driving the growth of steel manufacturing. The demand for stainless steel for manufacturing metal products is high due to its ease of fabrication and mechanical properties.

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The metal products segment showed a gradual increase in the market share of 20,426.71 thousand t in 2017. Stainless steel is used in jewelry, belt buckles, clips, casings, watch straps and backs, cooker hoods, outdoor kitchen cabinets, worktops, drainers, sinks, and others. It is also used in kitchen vessels due to its hygiene properties, durability, and resilience to food discoloration and spoilage. The shift in consumer preference toward hygienic and easy-to-clean products is likely to increase the demand for stainless steel in metal products during the forecast period.

By Region

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APAC is estimated to account for 76% of the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period. APAC has some of the largest stainless steel-producing countries in the world, such as China, Japan, South Korea, and India. China was the largest producer and consumer of stainless steel in 2020. Manufacturers are shifting to the consumption of scrap steel and stainless steel as raw materials to reduce pollution as well as manufacturing costs. These factors will drive the growth of the market in APAC during the forecast period.

Stainless Steel Market Dynamics

The market plays a vital role across various sectors, including residential housing, building & construction, railways, and automotive & transportation. Its resistance to corrosion surpasses that of carbon steel, making it a preferred choice. Renowned companies like Jindal Steel and Daido Steel contribute to its production capacities. Stainless steel finds applications in diverse architectural elements such as railings, roofing, and staircases, offering both pliability and appealing aesthetic properties. Moreover, it serves industrial needs like heat exchangers and tubulars, alongside providing swimming pool shades, canopies, and atriums with durability and low maintenance cost during repair and renovation. The stainless ste

China Transaction Price: 36 City Avg: Stainless Steel: 2.0, 304/2B Cold Roll data was reported at 15,097.180 RMB/Ton in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 15,170.080 RMB/Ton for Feb 2025. China Transaction Price: 36 City Avg: Stainless Steel: 2.0, 304/2B Cold Roll data is updated monthly, averaging 16,515.000 RMB/Ton from Dec 2011 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 160 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 22,569.000 RMB/Ton in Jan 2012 and a record low of 13,381.000 RMB/Ton in Dec 2015. China Transaction Price: 36 City Avg: Stainless Steel: 2.0, 304/2B Cold Roll data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Price Monitoring Center, NDRC. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Price – Table CN.PA: Price Monitoring Center, NDRC: 36 City Monthly Avg: Transaction Price: Production Material.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Stainless and Other Alloy Steel Scrap (WPU101212) from Dec 1986 to Aug 2025 about steel, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

The market value of the stainless steel industry in the U.S. is forecast to amount to almost *** billion U.S. dollars in 2022, a year-on-year decrease of around ** percent. It is expected to continue decreasing, reaching approximately *** billion U.S. dollars by 2027.

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Stainless Steel 400 Series Market Size 2024-2028

The stainless steel 400 series market size is forecast to increase by USD 11.49 billion at a CAGR of 6.67% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. The economic expansion in China and India is driving demand for this type of stainless steel, as it is widely used in various industries In these countries. Additionally, the increased penetration of the stainless steel 400 series in industrial applications, such as chemical processing and power generation, is contributing to market growth. The market is seeing increased demand due to its use in cladding applications, offering a combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal for various architectural and industrial projects. However, the market is also facing challenges, including the volatility of raw material prices, which can impact the cost-effectiveness of producing and using the stainless steel 400 series. Producers must carefully manage their supply chains and production costs to remain competitive In the market. Overall, the market is expected to continue growing due to its versatility, durability, and increasing demand from various end-use industries.

What will be the Size of the Stainless Steel 400 Series Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a diverse range of corrosion-resistant alloys, primarily composed of iron, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and other elements. These alloys, including 304 and 316 stainless steels, are renowned for their strength, durability, and resistance to various environmental conditions. The market for Stainless Steel 400 series alloys serves numerous industries, including consumer goods, such as cutlery and kitchen appliances, automotive components, industrial equipment, construction, and architectural applications. Applications span from handrails and drainage systems to roofing and cladding, reflecting the versatility of these materials. The market has experienced steady growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and long-lasting materials in various sectors.
Raw material prices, particularly chromium and nickel, have influenced market dynamics, but the overall trend remains positive. As the demand for stainless steel continues to grow, its usage extends beyond traditional industries to emerging sectors like renewable energy and electric vehicles. The market is expected to maintain its momentum, offering significant opportunities for manufacturers and end-users alike.

How is this Stainless Steel 400 Series Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

End-user

  Consumer goods
  Mechanical engineering and heavy industries
  Automotive and transportation
  Building and construction
  Others


Product Type

  Plate and sheet
  Bar and tubular
  Structural


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Europe



  North America

    US


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By End-user Insights

The consumer goods segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses a diverse range of materials, primarily composed of iron, chromium, and nickel. These corrosion-resistant alloys are widely used in various industries, including consumer goods, automotive components, industrial equipment, construction, and architectural cladding. The 400 series stainless steels, specifically 304 and 316, offer superior corrosion resistance and are commonly utilized in cookware, kitchen sinks, ornamental items, automotive parts, consumer electronics, and building and construction. The cost-effectiveness, high strength, and durability of the 400 series stainless steels make them an attractive choice for manufacturers. These alloys are fabricated using advanced refining methods, such as vacuum induction melting, electro slag refining, and computational modeling, ensuring consistent alloy compositions.

Molybdenum additions enhance the corrosion resistance of these alloys, making them suitable for demanding applications. The 400 series stainless steels cater to various industries, including automotive and transportation, mechanical engineering, heavy industries, aerospace, and home components. In export-oriented economies, the demand for these alloys is significant due to their versatility and superior performance. The market is expected to grow due to its extensive applications and the increasing demand for high-performance materials.

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The Consumer goods segment was value

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Wire, Stainless Steel was 175.30000 Index Dec 2010=100 in July of 2023, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Wire, Stainless Steel reached a record high of 209.58200 in August of 2022 and a record low of 83.80000 in June of 2016. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Wire, Stainless Steel - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on September of 2025.

Stainless steel prices fell in 2024 due to oversupply and weak demand; 2025 outlook signals further declines amid market saturation.

304 Stainless Steel Market size was valued at USD 21.6 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 32.5 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.2 % during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Global 304 Stainless Steel Market Drivers

The market drivers for the 304 Stainless Steel Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

Increasing Demand from the Construction Industry: The construction industry has witnessed a significant surge in activity, driven by urbanization and infrastructure development. 304 stainless steel is favored for its corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal, making it preferable for architectural applications, structural components, and decorative finishes. As more green building standards emerge, the demand for sustainable materials like 304 stainless steel, which has a long lifespan and low maintenance costs, is expected to rise. Additionally, the growth of residential and commercial construction projects globally propels the need for 304 stainless steel in various applications, creating a robust market driver.

Growth in the Food Processing Sector: The food processing sector is one of the largest consumers of 304 stainless steel due to its exceptional hygienic properties and resistance to corrosion and staining. It is widely used in manufacturing equipment such as tanks, pipes, and valves that handle food products. As the global population increases, so does the demand for processed food, leading to the expansion of food processing facilities. Stringent hygiene regulations and standards in the food industry further support the preference for stainless steel, including type 304. As food safety concerns mount, the reliance on 304 stainless steel is likely to bolster market growth.

Global 304 Stainless Steel Market Restraints

Several factors can act as restraints or challenges for the 304 Stainless Steel Market. These may include:

Price Volatility: The 304 Stainless Steel Market is subject to significant price fluctuations due to the instability in raw material costs, particularly nickel and chromium, which are essential components of stainless steel. Changes in global demand and supply dynamics can lead to sudden spikes in prices, making it challenging for manufacturers and consumers to budget effectively. This volatility can deter investment and long-term contracts, ultimately leading to decreased market stability. Moreover, fluctuations can also lead to increased production costs, which could be passed along to end-users, limiting the material's competitiveness against alternative products.

Regulatory Challenges: The 304 Stainless Steel Market faces stringent regulatory frameworks governing environmental and safety standards. Compliance with regulations, such as REACH and RoHS in Europe, requires manufacturers to invest significantly in research, development, and certification processes. These regulatory requirements can delay product launches, increase operational costs, and restrict market entry for new players. Additionally, continual changes in regulations necessitate ongoing adaptations, which can divert resources from innovation and growth, potentially stifling competition and restricting market expansion opportunities for companies invested in this sector.

The Wholesale Price Index of semi finished stainless steel across India during financial year 2024 was around ***. The price index of stainless steel increased by about ** percent from the base financial year of 2012. A huge increase in the index value of the stainless steel was seen in 2022.

316 Stainless Steel Market Outlook

The global 316 stainless steel market size was valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $5.8 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2024 to 2032. The growth of this market is primarily driven by increasing demand from various end-user industries, technological advancements, and the exceptional properties of 316 stainless steel that make it suitable for a wide range of applications.

The rising demand in the construction industry is a significant growth factor for the 316 stainless steel market. This material is highly resistant to corrosion, which makes it ideal for construction applications, especially in coastal and industrial environments where high resistance to salt and various chemicals is crucial. The durability and longevity of 316 stainless steel result in lower maintenance costs, enhancing its appeal in the construction sector. Additionally, the ongoing urbanization and infrastructural developments worldwide are further propelling the demand for this high-grade stainless steel.

Another major growth driver is the increasing use of 316 stainless steel in the automotive and aerospace industries. In the automotive sector, the focus on lightweight materials that provide strength and corrosion resistance is crucial for enhancing fuel efficiency and vehicle performance. Similarly, the aerospace industry requires materials that can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining structural integrity. 316 stainless steel meets these requirements, leading to its growing adoption in these applications. The advancements in manufacturing technologies have also made it easier to produce complex components using this material, broadening its application scope.

The medical industry is also contributing significantly to the growth of the 316 stainless steel market. This material is commonly used in medical devices and surgical instruments due to its biocompatibility, resistance to sterilization processes, and ability to withstand harsh cleaning agents. The rising global healthcare expenditure and the growing number of surgical procedures are expected to drive the demand for 316 stainless steel in the medical sector. Furthermore, the increasing trend of medical tourism and the expansion of healthcare facilities in emerging economies are additional factors supporting market growth.

In the realm of interior design and commercial applications, Stainless Steel Shelves are gaining popularity due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. These shelves offer a sleek, modern look while providing robust support for a variety of uses. In kitchens, stainless steel shelves are favored for their resistance to heat and moisture, making them ideal for storing cookware and food items. In retail and industrial settings, they provide a sturdy solution for displaying products or organizing tools and materials. The versatility and low maintenance requirements of stainless steel shelves make them a preferred choice in both residential and commercial environments, aligning with the growing trend towards minimalistic and functional design.

Regionally, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the 316 stainless steel market during the forecast period. The region's growth can be attributed to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and infrastructural developments in countries like China and India. North America and Europe are also significant markets due to the presence of established automotive, aerospace, and healthcare industries. In contrast, the Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America, are projected to witness moderate growth, driven by development projects and expanding industrial activities.

Product Type Analysis

The 316 stainless steel market is segmented by product type into sheets, plates, bars, tubes, and others. Each of these product types serves distinct applications and has its own set of advantages, driving demand in various industries. Sheets are widely used in the automotive and construction sectors due to their excellent formability, weldability, and corrosion resistance. The increasing demand for lightweight and durable materials in these industries is propelling the growth of the sheets segment.

The plates segment is another crucial product type, extensively used in heavy industries, marine applications, and in the construction of chemical processing equipment. Plates offer high strength, resistance

HRC Steel rose to 814 USD/T on October 10, 2025, up 0.12% from the previous day. Over the past month, HRC Steel's price has risen 0.49%, and is up 15.46% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. This dataset includes a chart with historical data for HRC Steel.

Flat Rolled Stainless Steel Market Outlook

The global flat rolled stainless steel market size was valued at approximately USD 95 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach about USD 135 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% during the forecast period. This significant growth can be attributed to various factors including increasing demand from the automotive and construction industries, coupled with advancements in production technologies and rising investments in infrastructure projects across emerging economies.

One of the key growth factors for the flat rolled stainless steel market is the robust demand from the automotive sector. Stainless steel's properties such as corrosion resistance, strength, and aesthetic appeal make it an ideal material for automotive components. As automotive manufacturers strive to produce lighter, fuel-efficient vehicles without compromising safety, the use of stainless steel is on the rise. Additionally, the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market further accentuates the demand for high-quality stainless steel components, given the material's excellent performance in battery and electrical systems.

Another significant driver of the market is the thriving construction industry. Stainless steel's durability and low maintenance requirements make it a preferred choice for structural applications, facades, roofing, and interior design elements. The growing trend of sustainable building practices also favors the use of stainless steel due to its recyclability and minimal environmental impact. As urbanization continues at a rapid pace, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, the demand for stainless steel in construction is anticipated to witness substantial growth.

Technological advancements in production processes and innovations in stainless steel grades are also contributing to market growth. The development of new alloys and improved rolling techniques enhance the material's performance characteristics, making it suitable for a broader range of applications. Furthermore, advancements in automation and digital manufacturing processes are leading to more efficient production lines, reducing costs and increasing output. These innovations not only improve the quality of flat rolled stainless steel but also enable manufacturers to meet the growing demand more effectively.

From a regional perspective, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate the flat rolled stainless steel market due to its robust industrial base and growing infrastructure investments. North America and Europe are also significant markets owing to the presence of established automotive and construction industries. However, the Middle East & Africa region is anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by increasing construction activities and economic diversification efforts in the Gulf countries.

Product Type Analysis

The flat rolled stainless steel market can be segmented by product type into hot rolled and cold rolled stainless steel. Hot rolled stainless steel is produced by heating steel above its recrystallization temperature and then rolling it into flat sheets. This process imparts certain properties such as enhanced ductility and malleability, making hot rolled stainless steel suitable for applications in heavy industries and construction. The primary advantage of hot rolled stainless steel is its cost-effectiveness, as the production process is relatively simple and less expensive compared to cold rolling.

On the other hand, cold rolled stainless steel undergoes a series of rolling processes at or near room temperature, which results in a product with a smoother surface finish, higher strength, and tighter dimensional tolerances. Cold rolled stainless steel is preferred in applications where precision and surface quality are paramount, such as in the manufacturing of consumer goods and automotive components. The demand for cold rolled stainless steel is expected to grow at a faster rate compared to hot rolled stainless steel due to its superior properties and expanding applications.

Market trends indicate a growing preference for high-performance stainless steel grades in both hot rolled and cold rolled segments. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing specialized alloys that offer enhanced resistance to corrosion, wear, and