- Global hot rolled steel prices moved in a volatile but largely range-bound pattern in Q1 2026, as high supply and weak near-term consumption kept the market balanced.
- Feedstock support remained firm, with elevated raw material and energy costs influencing offers, while global crude steel production stayed high at about 1,849.4 million metric tonnes in 2025, keeping overall steel availability ample.
- Downstream demand from construction and manufacturing stayed weak at the start of the quarter, then improved slightly by March as project activity resumed.
Hot rolled steel prices in Asia, particularly China, witnessed mixed performance in the first quarter of 2026, because although there was supportive cost-side pressure, there were still weak demand conditions in place. The increase in prices at the beginning of the year can be attributed to higher input costs, but due to seasonal factors and low construction activities, buying slowed down, resulting in an accumulation of stocks. During February, low consumption rates and stock volumes maintained downward pressure in the market. Towards the end of the quarter, there was a resumption in construction activities, which provided some support to demand; however, low buying interest and abundant supply prevented any significant gains.