The United States saw a rise in rolled steel imports during May 2024, according to data from the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Imports climbed 6.6% compared to April, reaching 2.23 million tons. This follows a more modest increase of 1.7% for total steel imports (including both rolled and semi-finished products) which reached 2.85 million tons in May.

Galvanized steel led the surge in imports, with a significant increase of 16.7% month-on-month, reaching 302,900 tons. Notably, finished steel products accounted for the majority (78.3%) of total imports.

Looking at year-to-date figures, steel imports into the US have grown by 8% compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 13.19 million tons. Rolled steel imports specifically have seen a 5.5% year-on-year increase, totaling 9.99 million tons so far this year. Once again, galvanized steel topped the list with imports reaching 1.3 million tons, reflecting a substantial 39.9% rise year-over-year.

Canada, Brazil, and Mexico remain the primary sources of US steel imports. In the first five months of 2024, these countries supplied 2.92 million tons, 2.2 million tons, and 1.74 million tons respectively.