[SMM Steel] EU semi-finished steel imports jump in 2025, led by China

Published: Apr 6, 2026 19:10

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[SMM Steel] EU imports of semi-finished steel rose 34.6% YoY to 8.91 million mt in 2025, with slabs up 28.6% and square billets surging 51%. Russia remained the largest supplier (41.8%), while China recorded the fastest growth, with shipments increasing 134.5% YoY to 1.5 million mt. Brazil and Vietnam also expanded exports, highlighting stronger reliance on external supply amid cost-driven procurement by European rolling mills.

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