[SMM Steel] Easing Logistics Drive Higher Imports, Pressuring Iranian Domestic Flat Steel Market

Published: Jun 29, 2026 11:14

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[Iran] Despite the lifting of temporary export restrictions at the end of May, production from major steel mills remains constrained following airstrikes in late March. Driven by limited billet output and persistent domestic shortages, Iranian producers are prioritizing domestic sales, with most shipments sourced from existing stock rather than new production. Last week, slab demand remained weak, with only around 18000 tonnes transacted at an offer price of 462 USD/tonne EXW. As the Strait of Hormuz reopened and logistical constraints eased, coupled with lower ocean freight rates and falling Chinese steel prices, Iran's flat steel imports have increased, pushing imported HRC prices in the Persian Gulf region down to 560-570 USD/tonne CFR. Additionally, a combined shipment of approximately 30000 tonnes of billets and HRC was delivered to Bandar Imam Khomeini (BIK) via Iskenderun, Turkey last week.

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