India recorded a strong rebound in finished steel trade during FY2025/26, with rolled steel exports rising 36 percent year-on-year amid improving global demand and competitive pricing from domestic producers. The sharp increase reflects stronger overseas shipments across key product categories, including hot-rolled, cold-rolled and coated steel.
The export growth comes as Indian mills capitalized on better market conditions in regions such as Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where buyers sought alternative supply sources and stable deliveries. Competitive raw material costs and expanding production capacity also supported outbound volumes.
Industry observers note that the rise in exports helped offset softer domestic demand in some segments and improved capacity utilization at major steel plants. The performance also strengthens India’s position as an increasingly important supplier in the global rolled steel market.
Looking ahead, exporters remain cautiously optimistic, though freight costs, trade barriers and fluctuations in global steel prices are expected to remain key factors influencing shipment momentum in the coming quarters.