According to preliminary census data from the US Department of Commerce, US imports of hot-dipped galvanized (HDG) sheets increased by 7.5 percent in March compared to February, reaching a total of 168,963 metric tons. Despite this month-over-month growth, imports were down significantly—34.9 percent—from March of last year.

The total value of HDG imports also rose to $197.3 million in March, up from $181.3 million in February. However, this remained well below the $307.5 million recorded in March 2024.

Among the leading sources of HDG imports, Austria supplied the largest volume, totaling 6,382 metric tons in March. This marked an increase from 4,285 metric tons in February but remained far below the 14,551 metric tons shipped in March last year. Germany matched Austria’s volume, also exporting 6,382 metric tons to the US. Other major exporters included Japan with 3,072 metric tons, Indonesia with 2,773 metric tons, and Belgium with 2,035 metric tons.

While the rise in HDG imports from February signals increased demand, the lower year-over-year figures reflect broader shifts in trade and market conditions. Industry watchers will continue to monitor these trends as the steel sector navigates ongoing economic challenges.