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Global Steel Industry Faces Crisis Amid Overproduction and Sluggish Demand

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Business 21 Aug 2024 12:43 PM IST CNBC

The world’s largest steel industry is currently grappling with significant challenges as it enters a period of economic downturn, often referred to as a ‘winter’ in industry parlance. This problematic phase is characterised by a pronounced supply glut and weak demand, severely impacting the sector’s profitability and stability.

Recent data reveals that steel production has surged beyond current consumption levels, leading to an oversupply in the global market. The excess inventory is exerting downward pressure on steel prices, making it increasingly difficult for manufacturers to maintain profit margins. This supply glut is a direct result of increased production capabilities and weaker-than-expected consumption in key markets.

Simultaneously, steel demand has weakened considerably. Several factors contribute to this downturn, including slower economic growth in major steel-consuming countries and reduced infrastructure spending. In particular, the construction and automotive industries, two primary consumers of steel, are experiencing slower activity, further exacerbating the demand issue.

The situation has prompted many industry players to reassess their strategies, with some considering production cuts or temporary shutdowns to stabilise the market. Additionally, there is growing pressure on governments and industry bodies to implement measures that could help alleviate the current crisis, such as export incentives or infrastructure investment programs.

The global steel industry’s current predicament highlights the sector's cyclical nature and underscores the challenges of managing supply and demand dynamics in a complex international market. As the industry navigates this challenging period, stakeholders closely monitor developments and strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of this downturn.