Global crude steel production declined 4.6 per cent year-on-year to 140.1 million tonnes (mt) in November 2025, weighed down primarily by a sharp contraction in output from China, according to data released by the World Steel Association.

China, the world’s largest steel producer, reported a steep 10.9 per cent drop in production to 69.9 mt during the month, significantly impacting overall global volumes. In contrast, India continued to show strong momentum, producing 13.7 mt of crude steel, up 10.8 per cent compared with November 2024. The United States also recorded a notable increase, with output rising 8.5 per cent to 6.8 mt.

Japan’s steel production declined 1.6 per cent year-on-year to 6.8 mt, while Russia saw a sharper fall of 6.6 per cent, producing 5.2 mt of steel. South Korea’s output dropped 4.8 per cent to 5 mt. Türkiye emerged as a bright spot, posting a 10 per cent increase in production to 3.3 mt. Brazil produced 2.8 mt of steel, marginally higher by 0.7 per cent, while Iran registered a strong growth of 9.2 per cent to 3.4 mt. Germany’s output slipped 2.6 per cent to 2.8 mt.

On a regional basis, Africa recorded the highest growth, with steel production rising 7.4 per cent to 2 mt in November. Asia and Oceania, however, saw output decline 7.1 per cent to 99.9 mt. The European Union’s production fell 3.5 per cent to 10.2 mt, while Europe (Other) posted a 9.8 per cent increase to 3.7 mt.

The Middle East produced 5.5 mt of steel, up 8.2 per cent year-on-year. North America’s output increased 5.4 per cent to 9 mt. Russia and other CIS countries, including Ukraine, saw production decline 3.9 per cent to 6.3 mt, while South America recorded a 2.4 per cent rise to 3.5 mt.

News source: The Hindu Businessline