AIIS: U.S. Steel Imports Retreat Slightly Amid Generally Positive Economic Signs
04/25/2014 - U.S. steel imports declined slightly in March 2014 compared to February 2014 according to preliminary data released by the U.S. government and analyzed by the American Institute for International Steel (AIIS).
“We are seeing a slight retreat in imports, but at the same time we see some overall favorable signs for the economy in the first quarter of 2014. The Federal Reserve’s measure of industrial production increased 0.7% in March, and has moved up at an annual rate of 4.4%--a healthy sign. In addition, the Conference Board’s latest report on the economy for March was also positive — it’s leading economic index rose more than projected,” said Richard Chriss, AIIS executive director. “These improving indicators would seem to support the idea that demand is better, but it also seems that many customers are unconvinced, and are still hesitant to buy,” he noted.
Total steel imports in March 2014 were 3.218 million tons compared to 3.250 million tons in February 2014, a 1% decrease, and a 25.2% increase compared to March 2013. For the year- to - date period, imports decreased from 7.695 million tons in the first three months of 2013 to 6.423 million tons in the same 2014 period, a 16.5% decrease. The data show that imported semi-finished products increased by 56% in March 2014 compared to March 2013, from 509,000 tons in 2013 to 794,000 tons in 2014, based on preliminary reporting. For the year-to-date period, imported semi-finished products decreased from 1.604 million tons in the first three months of 2013 to 1.558 million tons in the same 2014 period, a 2.9% decrease.
The American Institute for International Steel is the only steel-related association that supports free trade. The Institute accomplishes its mission through advocacy, networking, communications, and education.
Total steel imports in March 2014 were 3.218 million tons compared to 3.250 million tons in February 2014, a 1% decrease, and a 25.2% increase compared to March 2013. For the year- to - date period, imports decreased from 7.695 million tons in the first three months of 2013 to 6.423 million tons in the same 2014 period, a 16.5% decrease. The data show that imported semi-finished products increased by 56% in March 2014 compared to March 2013, from 509,000 tons in 2013 to 794,000 tons in 2014, based on preliminary reporting. For the year-to-date period, imported semi-finished products decreased from 1.604 million tons in the first three months of 2013 to 1.558 million tons in the same 2014 period, a 2.9% decrease.
The American Institute for International Steel is the only steel-related association that supports free trade. The Institute accomplishes its mission through advocacy, networking, communications, and education.
