Informe diario de mineral de hierro de MMi (20 de abril)

[SMM Steel] Turkey’s steel sector expects no change to its 2026 export targets of 20 million tons and $17 billion, supported by continued market diversification efforts to offset weaker EU demand. The country produced 38 million tons of crude steel in 2025 and exported 19 million tons, maintaining its position as a key global supplier. Competitive advantages include fast delivery to Europe (~48 hours) versus 25–30 days from Asian exporters, though rising energy costs remain a key challenge. The sector is accelerating green transition, with 15–20% of energy already sourced from renewables.

[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.

[SMM Steel] American Iron and Steel Institute reported that US crude steel production reached 1.848 million net tons in the week ending April 18, 2026, up 0.3% week-on-week, with capacity utilization at 80.0%. Output increased 9.7% year-on-year, while year-to-date production totaled 27.72 million net tons, up 5.8% YoY, indicating steady recovery in US steel production.