[SMM Steel] Japan steel consumption rises 1.8% YoY in Jan–Feb 2026, driven by autos

Published: Apr 21, 2026 17:48
[SMM Steel] Japan Iron and Steel Federation reported Japan’s domestic steel consumption reached 7.19 million tons in Jan–Feb 2026, up 1.8% YoY. February consumption stood at 3.58 million tons (-0.5% MoM, +3% YoY). Sector-wise, automotive demand rose 3% YoY to 1.90 million tons, while construction declined 3.9% YoY and shipbuilding fell 1.8% YoY, indicating mixed demand dynamics.

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