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    Analysis

    February 10, 2025

    Steel exports drop to 2-year low in December

    Written by Brett Linton

    The volume of steel that exited the country in the month of December fell to a two-year low, according to the latest data published by the US Department of Commerce. This marks the fourth month in a row that steel exports have declined, now at the lowest monthly rate recorded since December 2022.

    Steel exports declined 7% month on month (m/m) in December to 613,000 short tons (st), 27% less than the one-year high rate recorded four months prior (843,000 st). December exports were 26% less than the average monthly rate of 2024 (770,000 st). Compared to export levels one year prior, December was essentially flat (less than 1% lower). As evident in Figure 1, December typically holds the lowest export volume out of any other month of the year.

    Brett Linton

    Brett Linton is a digital operations analyst for Steel Market Update, where he began his career. Linton has been in the steel industry since 2010. He has held roles as a category manager and strategic insights director at Reibus before returning to SMU in 2024. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Brett can be reached at brett@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-314-0179.

    Read more from Brett Linton

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