[SMM Steel Market Flash] POSCO Says Middle East Tensions Continue to Squeeze Steel Margins

Published: Apr 30, 2026 22:27

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According to POSCO’s Q1 2026 earnings call, the ongoing US-Iran conflict has pushed up FX, oil, LNG, and logistics costs, creating clear pressure on steel margins. The company said that although sales volumes, production, and utilization rates recovered sequentially, raw material sourcing costs remain elevated due to disruptions linked to the Middle East situation, and this cost pressure is expected to continue into the second quarter.

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