[SMM Iron & Steel] Brazil Heavy Plate April Exports Surge 117% but US Market Absence Drags Volumes

Published: May 18, 2026 11:13

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Brazil’s heavy plate exports surged by 117.3% month-on-month in April 2026 to 11,300 metric tons (mt) compared to 5,200 mt in March, according to SECEX data. Despite the strong monthly growth, overall export volumes remain well below historical averages due to the continued absence of the United States as an export destination, with all April shipments bound for South American countries. Prominent exporters included Usiminas (10,700 mt at $559/mt FOB), CSN (300 mt at $842/mt FOB), and Gerdau (200 mt at $595/mt FOB). Concurrently, Brazil's heavy plate imports grew 47% month-on-month to 2,200 mt, led by China (1,500 mt at $608/mt), Italy (500 mt), and Portugal (300 mt).

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