According to EUROFER, EU steel exports to third countries declined by 20%, equivalent to 14 million tonnes, in the first half of 2026. Total imports fell 5% to 34 million tonnes, including 26 million tonnes of finished products. EUROFER also reported that EU crude steel output was 125.8 million tonnes in 2025 and increased 1.1% in May 2026.
MetalMate summary of the linked evidenceCommercial context
Analysis: The much steeper decline in exports than imports points to sustained pressure on EU mills in external markets. Capacity utilisation of 67%, only slightly above 65% in 2025, suggests the production recovery remained limited.
MetalMate analysis- EUROFER issued the update as its third-quarter 2026 economic and steel-market outlook.
- EU exports to third countries fell 20%, equivalent to 14 million tonnes, in H1 2026.
- EU imports declined 5% to 34 million tonnes, of which 26 million tonnes were finished products.
- EU crude steel output totaled 125.8 million tonnes in 2025 and rose 1.1% in May 2026.
- EU steel capacity utilisation increased to 67% in 2026 from 65% in 2025.
Outlook: Monitor whether the May production increase develops into a sustained recovery, whether capacity utilisation rises further, and whether the sharp export contraction moderates.
Source & methodology +
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- Article status
- Published · Version 1
- Source date
- Not supplied
- MetalMate publication
- 12 October 2026
- Verification
- Automated evidence checks; not human reviewed
Economic and Steel market Outlook 2026-2027, third quarter — EUROFER
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