- HRB steel prices in Q1’26 followed a volatile but slightly weak global trend, as high production levels and inventory buildup offset late quarter demand recovery.
- Feedstock support remained inconsistent, with early gains from raw material tightness easing as supply pressure increased across the quarter.
- Downstream demand was weak initially due to seasonal slowdown, with gradual improvement from construction activity toward March.
During Q1’26, HRB steel prices in Asia followed a volatile yet slightly declining trend, influenced by oversupply and uneven demand recovery. Global crude steel production remained elevated at ~1,849.4 million metric tonnes in 2025, maintaining strong supply pressure across markets. In January, prices saw limited support from higher raw material costs, but demand weakened due to the Lunar New Year slowdown, reducing construction activity and procurement. As the quarter progressed, the prices faced further pressure as inventories increased due to slow consumption and continued production, which weighed on market sentiment. By the last month of the quarter, demand improved with the resumption of construction projects, but high stock levels and cautious buying restricted price recovery. Export disruptions linked to the Iran war affected shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, raising freight costs and delaying deliveries.