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    April 15, 2026

    Steel exports remain muted through February

    Written by Brett Linton

    US steel exports held steady from January to February and remain near historical lows, according to recently released US Department of Commerce data. Exports have trended lower for over a year now, recently dipping to a five-year low.  

    The volume of steel shipped outside of the country totaled 620,000 st in February. Recall that two months before this, we saw the lowest monthly export level on record since June 2020 (469,000 st). February trade was down 8% year over year, 1% below the average monthly export rate of 2025 (629,000 st), and 21% below the average rate of 2024 (785,000 st).

    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.

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