【SMM Steel】Wuppermann opens new pipe plant at Austrian site

The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) reported that for the week ending May 2, 2026, domestic raw steel production reached 1,856,000 net tons, with a capability utilization rate of 80.4%. This represents a 9.6% increase compared to the same week in 2025. Adjusted year-to-date production through early May reached 31,405,000 net tons, reflecting robust industrial demand in the North American market.

ArcelorMittal has adjusted its long-term strategy, stating that it will not initiate any new electric arc furnace (EAF) investments until its 2 Mt/y reference project in Dunkirk, France, is nearing completion. The group's 2025 Sustainability Report indicates that due to high energy prices in Europe (well above $30/MWh) and slow progress in green hydrogen infrastructure, the company will adopt a "flexible and adaptable" strategy, prioritizing financial discipline. The Dunkirk EAF project, costing €1.3 billion, has a planned capacity of 2 Mt/y and is expected to begin production in 2029, reaching full capacity in 2030-2031. The new EAF will replace two existing blast furnaces with a combined capacity of 1.8 Mt/y.

Kazakhstan has officially extended its ban on the export of ferrous scrap by rail and road for another six months. The measure is intended to ensure a stable supply of raw materials for domestic steel producers as they ramp up production to meet national infrastructure goals. Regional billet prices rose by $10–15 per ton following the announcement.