Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 11, India became a net exporter of finished steel in October, with exports reaching 0.6 million metric tons, marking a 44.7% increase compared with the same month last year, according to provisional government data reviewed by Reuters on Monday.

Steel coils are seen inside the Jindal Stainless facility in Hisar, Haryana, India, May 30, 2025.

As the world’s second-largest crude steel producer, India recorded a decline in steel imports during the same period. Imports fell to 0.5 million metric tons in October, down 55.6% from a year earlier, reflecting a stronger domestic production base and improving export competitiveness.

The data showed that India produced 13.4 million metric tons of finished steel in October, representing a 10% year-on-year rise, supported by robust output from both public and private sector producers. Domestic consumption of finished steel stood at 13.6 million metric tons, up 4.7% from a year earlier, indicating steady demand from key industries including construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

In terms of crude steel, India’s output reached 14.02 million metric tons in October, an increase of 9.4% compared with the previous year. The continued expansion in production capacity, alongside rising infrastructure investment and industrial activity, contributed to this growth.

Industry analysts noted that India’s steel sector has maintained strong momentum in 2025, aided by improved capacity utilization, sustained government spending on infrastructure, and favorable global demand conditions. The decline in imports also reflects reduced reliance on foreign supplies as domestic producers have increased output to meet both local and export market requirements.

Export performance was supported by competitive pricing and demand from regions such as Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Meanwhile, a balanced rise in consumption highlights ongoing recovery in the domestic economy and resilience in core industries, despite global headwinds affecting commodity markets.

The increase in finished and crude steel production aligns with India’s long-term goal of strengthening its position in global steel trade. The data suggest that the country’s steel producers are benefiting from higher efficiency and capacity expansion, enabling them to meet growing domestic needs while also enhancing export opportunities.

Overall, India’s steel industry in October demonstrated strong growth across production, exports, and consumption, supported by consistent policy measures and industrial activity. The shift toward net exports marks a positive development for the sector, underscoring its expanding role in both regional and global markets.