MSMEs Are Driving Innovation in the Steel Sector — What’s the Biggest Digital Trend Set to Impact Their Operations This Year?

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MSMEs Are Driving Innovation in the Steel Sector — What’s the Biggest Digital Trend Set to Impact Their Operations This Year?

Business 23 May 2025 05:51 PM IST SB Team

India’s steel industry is seeing a fresh wave of innovation, and at the heart of this transformation are Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). From local rolling mills to fabrication shops and scrap processors, these businesses form the invisible backbone of the steel supply chain. And now — thanks to rapid digitisation — they’re playing a far bigger, smarter role.

📈 How MSMEs Are Reshaping the Steel Game

Traditionally, steel MSMEs have worked in a highly fragmented, price-sensitive market. But in the last two years, with digital procurement, AI-driven pricing tools, and inventory automation platforms emerging, MSMEs have moved beyond just being vendors or local suppliers.

They’re now adopting real-time pricing dashboards, digital RFQ (Request for Quotation) systems, and online scrap marketplaces to streamline their buying, selling, and financing processes.

🚀 The Big Digital Trend of 2025: AI-Powered Predictive Analytics

The most game-changing digital trend expected to redefine MSME operations this year is AI-powered predictive analytics. These tools use historical market data, real-time price fluctuations, and demand trends to forecast steel prices, raw material needs, and supply chain risks.

Platforms like SB Predict and other AI-backed dashboards are making it possible for MSMEs to:

Lock prices at the right time.
Reduce inventory holding costs.
Plan orders and production based on market forecasts.

This is a huge shift for MSMEs that earlier relied on brokers and word-of-mouth for market cues.

💡 Why It Matters

It levels the playing field between MSMEs and big corporate buyers.
Brings operational transparency and efficiency.
Reduces risk exposure in a volatile market.

Also Read : Australia’s green steel drive could impact India’s sustainability goals. Temporary 12% Safeguard Duty on Steel Imports: Evaluating the Impact on India's Steel Industry and Economy

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