[SMM Iron & Steel] Germany Crude Steel Output Rises in Q1 2026 but Weak Demand Weighs on Outlook

Published: Apr 27, 2026 17:21

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Germany's crude steel production increased by 7.5% year-on-year in March 2026 to 3.35 million metric tons (mt), bringing the Q1 2026 output to 9.26 million mt, up 9% year-on-year. Despite the increase, the German Steel Federation (WV Stahl) warned this does not reflect a true recovery but rather inventory restocking. Current annualized output levels of approximately 37 million mt remain below the 40 million mt capacity threshold required for sustainable capacity utilization. Structural demand weakness continues, with steel consumption down by 30% (12 million mt) since 2017 amid underperforming mechanical and automotive sectors.

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