Six African countries produced a total of 1.77 million tonnes of crude steel in April, a 4.3% decrease from the 1.85 million tonnes produced in March, but a 1.4% increase compared to the 1.75 million tonnes produced in the same month last year. In the first four months of 2024, these six countries collectively produced 7.37 million tonnes of crude steel, representing a 6.6% increase from the 6.91 million tonnes produced during the same period in 2023, according to Ezz Steels reports.

Egypt, the continent's largest steel producer, showed significant growth in crude steel output. The country's crude steel production hit 10.4 million tonnes in 2023, marking a 6% increase driven by surging exports, particularly to the European Union and North America. Egypt produced 336,000 tonnes of crude steel in November 2022, a substantial 42.2% decrease compared to 581,000 tonnes in November 2014, highlighting the industry's resilience amidst challenges.

While Egypt's steel industry flourished, other African nations experienced declines. Libya's crude steel output in November 2022 plunged by 13.5% compared to the previous year. Iran, a major steel producer in the Middle East region, saw a significant decline in April output, estimated at 20.7% year-on-year and 3.3% month-on-month, reaching 2.22 million tonnes and dragging down the Middle East's combined production.

As Egypt continues to increase its crude steel output, driven by robust export demand, it solidifies its position as the leading steel producer in Africa, contributing to the continent's overall growth in the sector.