AIIS: U.S. Steel Imports Edge Up in April, but Remain Depressed from 2012 Levels
05/28/2013 - U.S. steel imports increased 4.2% in April compared to March, according to preliminary government reporting analyzed by the American Institute for International Steel (AIIS).
Steel imports increased 4.2% in April compared to March according to preliminary government reporting analyzed by the American Institute for International Steel (AIIS).
“Imports increased in April primarily due to an increase in arrivals of semifinished slab imports for further processing by the domestic integrated industry, suggesting an anticipation of improved conditions in the U.S. market going forward. Imports of rebars posted a decline,” commented David Phelps, president of AIIS.
Imports in the first four months of 2013 compared to 2012 posted a decline of 11.7%. “Year-to-date imports remain weak, which reflects the slow start to the year experienced by all suppliers of steel to the U.S. market. With inventory levels currently low and demand in several sectors strong, such as autos and strong consumption in oil and gas related products, there is increasing optimism that the market is on the mend as we move to the mid-point in the second quarter,” concluded Phelps.
Total steel imports in April 2013 were 2.679 million tons compared to 2.570 million tons in March 2013, 4.2% increase, and a 14.8% decrease compared to April 2012. For the year- to - date period, imports decreased from 11.748 million tons in the first four months of 2012 to 10.374 million tons in the same 2013 period, an 11.7% decrease.
The data show that imported semifinished products decreased by 10.3% in April 2013 compared to April 2012, from 661 thousand tons in 2012 to 593 thousand tons in 2013, based on preliminary reporting. For the year- to - date period, imported semifinished products decreased from 2.759 million tons in the first four months of 2012 to 2.197 million tons in the same 2013 period, a 20.4% decrease.
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