Steel Products Prices North America

Exports Inch up in July on Strength of NAFTA Demand

September 9, 2013

American Institute for International Steel Press Release

Falls Church, VA, September 9, 2013 – Steel exports increased in July by 2.2 percent over June according to government reporting. “NAFTA steel demand improved in July compared to June by 6 percent, offsetting declines in other smaller international markets. NAFTA market’s increase reflects the timing of the stronger mid-summer market conditions experienced at that time. Whether increased pricing in many steel markets – especially flat rolled – has staying power or is an inventory replenishment driven cycle remains to be seen,” said David Phelps, president, AIIS.

For the year to date period in 2013 compared to 2012, exports were 9.5 percent lower. “Steel exports in July were 0.3 percent higher than in July 2012, but remained below 2012 for the year to date period, as overall steel demand continues to be weaker in all international markets in 2013. While the slight improvement in July 2013 compared to 2012 is positive, the level of exports for the month remains below healthy levels unfortunately,” concluded Phelps.

Total Steel exports in July 2013 were 1.087 million tons compared to 1.064 million tons in June 2013, a 2.2 percent increase, and a 0.3 percent increase compared to July 2012. According to year-to-date figures, exports decreased 9.5% compared to 2012 or from 8.362 million tons in 2012 to 7.569 million tons in 2013.