Steel fell to 3,158 CNY/T on July 31, 2025, down 2.17% from the previous day. Over the past month, Steel's price has risen 4.22%, and is up 5.27% compared to the same time last year, 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 July of 2025.

HRC Steel rose to 857.96 USD/T on July 29, 2025, up 0.94% from the previous day. Over the past month, HRC Steel's price has fallen 2.50%, but it is still 22.04% higher than a year ago, 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.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Cold Rolled Steel Sheet and Strip (WPU101707) from Jun 1982 to Jun 2025 about steel, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Mill Products (WPU1017) from Jan 1939 to Jun 2025 about mills, steel, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Raw materials price index (RMPI) by North American Product Classification System (NAPCS) 2017 Version 2.0. Monthly data are available from January 1981. The table presents data for the most recent reference period and the last four periods. The base period for the index is (202001=100).

In 2024, the producer price index (PPI) for iron and steel in Japan stood at *** index points on average, decreasing from ****** points in the previous year. The lowest producer price of iron and steel within the preceding decade was in 2016, with a PPI of ***** points. What determines the price of steel products? Steelmaking requires several raw materials and plenty of energy. Japan has hardly any significant resources to satisfy either demand domestically. Therefore, the country imports iron ore and coking coal, the crucial raw materials needed to produce steel by using blast furnaces. Accordingly, the price depends on the overall energy price and a steady raw material supply – primarily from Australia. For recycling, steel scrap can be added to a certain degree within the conventional process or re-melted in electric arc furnaces. The latter process entails high electricity consumption, making recycled steel of this kind expensive. Carbon-neutral steel: a matter of price Ample carbon emissions are caused by removing excess carbon left from the carbon-based reduction of the iron oxides. Consequently, one strategy is to adjust steel plants to carbon-neutral reducing agents, such as green or blue hydrogen. Carbon capture, usage, and storage (CCUS), still in development, could offset further emissions on top.The trade-off for implementing these measures and using sustainable energy had called for a gradual transition. Ironically, the latest price increases in fossil fuels could spur ecological investments even more than the contested CO2-emission-based premium included in the petroleum and coal tax.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Pipe and Tube, Stainless Steel (WPU10170674) from Dec 2010 to Jun 2025 about steel, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

In 2023, the price of fabricated structural steel in the United Kingdom has fallen by over ** percent. That came after the cost of that building material soared between 2020 and 2022. Most of that price increase happened in 2021, with a growth rate of **** percent that year. Structural steel is widely used for construction because it is durable, malleable, and strong, while also being cheaper than many other metals. For example, it is often used as a structural material for skyscrapers and other buildings, as well as for infrastructure. Why has the price of steel increased? Those price increases seen until 2022 have not just affected the UK, but many other countries around the world. For example, the cost of fabricated structural metal in the U.S. and that of structural steel and other steel products in Germany reached their highest growth rate in 2022. Supply chain disruptions along with a decrease in the global production of crude steel in 2020 were some of the main reasons for those price hikes in 2021. In addition to that, the price of iron ore, which is the main component of steel, and energy also had a strong impact on the final price of steel products those years. Largest steel producers In the past couple of years, China was by far the largest steel producer in the world, with a production volume that was well over ***** times higher than that of the second country in the ranking: India. Although the United States was also on that list along with Japan and Russia, it was not among the leading exporters of steel. The reason for that discrepancy is that a big share of the production in countries of the size of the U.S., China, and India goes to fill their own domestic needs. Meanwhile, **** of the ** companies with the highest output of steel came from China, with the rest coming from Luxembourg, Japan, South Korea, India, and the U.S.

Nucor and Gerdau, leaders in the US steel industry, announce significant price hikes due to rising raw material costs, impacting rebar and hot rolled coil prices.

Iron and steel scrap prices in the United States stood at around *** U.S. dollars per metric ton in 2024, down from *** dollars per ton a year earlier. This is the fourth consecutive annual decrease recorded. Steel scrap consumption The majority of domestic steel industry scrap consumption is from manufacturers of raw steel, and steel castings. These raw materials are used to produce steel products that are used for appliances, construction, machinery, and transportation, among other industry uses. Only small amounts of steel scrap were used for the production of ferroalloys, copper precipitation, and the chemical industry. Recycling scrap Recycled iron and steel scrap materials have been essential for the production of new steel and cast iron products. Vehicles are one of the largest sources of old steel scrap used for recycling and nearly 100 percent of cars are recycled for their scrap material. It is expected that the recycling rate for scrap materials from appliances and construction purposes should rise, especially as public interest for recycling grows and profitability increases.

Explore the factors influencing recent fluctuations in steel prices, including global supply and demand dynamics, raw material costs, geopolitical events, and energy expenses. Understand how major producers like China impact the market and the effects of post-pandemic recovery on price volatility.

This statistic shows the stock prices of selected raw material commodities from January 2, 2020 to February 5, 2025. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, metal prices increased significantly due to disruptions to supply chain and increased demand. Since then, stock values of raw materials started to decrease albeit with some fluctuations.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Steel Pipe and Tube, Stainless Steel was 144.14400 Index Dec 2010=100 in June 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 July of 2025.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Metals and Metal Products: Carbon Steel Scrap (WPU101211) from Dec 1986 to Jun 2025 about steel, metals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

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Carbon Steel Market Size 2025-2029

The carbon steel market size is forecast to increase by USD 197.5 billion, at a CAGR of 3.3% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven primarily by the expanding construction industry. This sector's increasing demand for durable and cost-effective steel solutions is fueling market expansion. Additionally, there is a rising trend towards sustainable manufacturing practices, as companies seek to reduce their environmental footprint and improve their social responsibility. However, the market faces challenges due to the volatility of raw material prices, which can significantly impact production costs and profitability. Environmental conditions necessitate the use of anti-corrosion coatings, further bolstering market demand.
As such, market participants must navigate this price instability while continuing to meet customer demands and maintain competitive pricing. Companies that successfully manage these dynamics and innovate to meet evolving customer needs will be well-positioned to capitalize on the market's growth opportunities. From the hot rolling process to the final product, every stage of carbon steel production is meticulously controlled to ensure the highest quality and performance. Volatile prices of raw materials, such as iron ore and coal, pose a significant threat to market growth.

What will be the Size of the Carbon Steel Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, driven by advancements in steel manufacturing processes and the diverse applications of this versatile material across various sectors. The hot rolling process and continuous casting technique have revolutionized steel production, enabling the mass production of high strength steel with superior mechanical properties. For instance, the adoption of high strength steel in the automotive industry has led to a significant increase in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The steel manufacturing process undergoes rigorous testing to ensure adherence to material specification standards.

Impact toughness testing, surface hardness testing, and corrosion resistance rating assessment are essential to evaluate the steel's performance under various conditions. Carbon steel alloying, annealing temperature control, and heat treatment processes like quenching and tempering are crucial in optimizing the steel's mechanical properties. Non-destructive testing methods, such as ultrasonic testing and X-ray inspection, are employed to ensure product quality and reliability. The electric arc furnace and basic oxygen furnace are integral to the steelmaking process, reducing iron ore to molten steel. Steel microstructure analysis and chemical composition analysis are essential in understanding the steel's behavior during manufacturing and its final properties.

The market is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, driven by advancements in steel manufacturing processes and the diverse applications of this versatile material.

How is this Carbon Steel Industry segmented?

The carbon steel industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

End-user

  Construction
  Shipbuilding
  Automotive
  Transportation
  Others


Type

  Low carbon steel
  Medium carbon steel
  High carbon steel


Form Factor

  Flat products
  Long products
  Tubular products


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By End-user Insights

The Construction segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Carbon steel, a key component in various industries, undergoes a intricate manufacturing process that includes hot rolling, steel manufacturing, and alloying with elements like manganese and silicon for high strength steel. Post-production, processes such as galvanizing, impact toughness testing, and surface hardness testing ensure the steel meets specifications. The steel industry's growth is driven by construction, which accounted for the largest market share in 2024, with a steady expansion of residential and commercial buildings globally. High-rise structures, tech parks, and infrastructure projects necessitate carbon steel's use due to its superior mechanical properties, including yield strength and tensile strength. Carbon steel tubes have gained significant traction in Europe due to the increasing demand from various end-user industries, including oil and gas, power generation, and infrastru

Explore the factors influencing the cost of steel per ton in 2023, including market demand, geopolitical conditions, production costs, and material specifications. Understand how industries, trade policies, and raw material prices impact global steel price trends.

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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 global flat carbon steel market, valued at $847.2 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 1.9% from 2025 to 2033. This moderate growth reflects a mature market with established players like Tata Steel Limited, ArcelorMittal, United States Steel Corporation, and Voestalpine Group. While the market is not experiencing explosive growth, several factors contribute to its sustained trajectory. Increased infrastructure development globally, particularly in emerging economies, fuels demand for flat carbon steel in construction and automotive applications. Advancements in steel production technologies, focusing on enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact, are also influencing market dynamics. However, fluctuating raw material prices, particularly iron ore and coking coal, pose a significant challenge, impacting profitability and potentially hindering growth. Furthermore, increasing competition from alternative materials, such as aluminum and advanced composites, in specific niche applications, necessitates strategic adaptation by existing market players. The market is segmented based on product type (e.g., hot-rolled, cold-rolled, galvanized), application (e.g., construction, automotive, appliances), and end-use industries. A detailed regional breakdown would provide further insights into market variations. The forecast period of 2025-2033 anticipates a continuation of these trends. While a 1.9% CAGR might seem modest, it represents a significant volume increase over the long term, driven by sustained infrastructure development in various regions and the ongoing need for flat carbon steel in numerous essential industries. However, proactive management of raw material price volatility and strategic diversification into higher-value applications will be crucial for market players to secure their position in this competitive landscape. The adoption of sustainable manufacturing practices, aligned with growing environmental concerns, will also significantly impact market competitiveness and overall growth trajectory.

The global raw steel market, a cornerstone of the global economy, is experiencing robust growth, driven by burgeoning infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies like India and China. The market's substantial size, estimated at approximately $800 billion in 2025, reflects its vital role in various sectors, including construction, automotive manufacturing, and energy. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 4% is projected for the forecast period of 2025-2033, indicating sustained expansion despite potential headwinds. Key growth drivers include increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes leading to increased demand for consumer goods, and the ongoing global transition towards renewable energy, which demands significant steel input for infrastructure like wind turbines and solar panel frameworks. However, factors such as fluctuating raw material prices, environmental regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions in steel production, and potential economic downturns could act as restraints, moderating the market's growth trajectory. The competitive landscape is dominated by major integrated steel producers including ArcelorMittal, China Baowu, and Nippon Steel, along with other significant players like POSCO, Tata Steel, and Nucor, reflecting the industry's high capital intensity and economies of scale. The market's segmentation, likely divided geographically and by steel grade (e.g., carbon steel, stainless steel), reveals diverse opportunities, but requires strategic adaptability to regional regulations and evolving customer preferences. The historical period (2019-2024) likely witnessed fluctuating growth, reflecting global economic shifts and pandemic-related disruptions. The forecast period anticipates continued growth, albeit at a potentially moderated pace, given the inherent cyclical nature of the steel industry and the increasing pressure for sustainable production practices. The future of the raw steel market hinges on technological advancements aimed at carbon reduction and improved efficiency. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to explore greener production methods, such as hydrogen-based steelmaking, to meet growing environmental concerns. Furthermore, the adoption of advanced manufacturing techniques and data analytics is likely to enhance productivity and reduce waste. This technological push will influence the competitive landscape, favoring companies adept at innovation and sustainable practices. Geographic diversification will remain crucial, especially for companies aiming to capitalize on growth opportunities in emerging markets. Strategic collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions are likely to reshape the industry landscape, fostering consolidation and improving operational efficiency. Government policies, trade agreements, and geopolitical factors also play a significant role in shaping the market's trajectory. Overall, a balanced approach that combines strategic investments in innovation, sustainability, and global market expansion is crucial for navigating the complexities and maximizing returns within the raw steel sector.

Explore how factors like raw material costs, global demand, and geopolitical tensions impact stainless steel prices. Understand the role of nickel and chromium markets, sustainable practices, and economic growth in price fluctuations.