U.S. steel exports declined in September compared to August by 9.7% according to government data analyzed by the American Institute for International Steel (AIIS).

"Exports declined to NAFTA, the rest of the Western Hemisphere, Africa and to Asia, while increasing marginally to the EU in September compared to August. The data for September reflect what clearly is increasingly of concern to many economists at this time, slowing economic growth in developing and developed economies" said David Phelps, president, AIIS.

Steel exports for the 9 months of 2012 compared to 9 months of 2011 were up 7.3% but were down compared to September 2011 by 12.8%. "Steel exports in September were again below the same month of 2011 and the trend – first exhibited in August – accelerated in September. While for the year-to-date period, export totals to international markets remain above 2011 – with the exception of the small African market – and are on track to break the 2008 record tonnage, the decline in September is cause for concern for domestic steel mills and their trading company partners. While US market demand remains relatively healthy with the exception of the non-residential construction market, slowing economic growth internationally bodes ill for the both direct steel exports and exports of steel-intensive products as well, should the trend continue," concluded Phelps.

Total steel exports in September 2012 were 1.058 million tons compared to 1.172 million tons in August 2012, a 9.7% decrease, and a 12.8% decrease compared to September 2011. According to year-to-date figures, exports increased 7.3% compared to 2011 or from 9.872 million tons in 2011 to 10.592 million tons in 2012.