Global Stainless Steel Melt Shop Production Rises 5% in First Half of 2025

According to the latest statistics from the World Stainless Association, global stainless steel melt shop production reached 31.9 million tons in the first half of 2025, marking a 5% increase year-on-year. The growth was particularly notable in the second quarter of 2025, when production climbed to 16.36 million tons, up 5.0% from Q1 and 3.1% higher compared to the same period in 2024.
 

🌍 Regional Production Highlights

• United States: Stainless steel production rose 1.1% quarter-on-quarter and surged 7.8% year-on-year, reaching 559,000 tons. Strong demand in automotive and energy sectors contributed to this rebound.
• China: Still the global leader, production increased 3.9% year-on-year to 10.54 million tons, supported by infrastructure and export demand despite oversupply challenges.
• Other Asia (excluding China): Output rose 4.1% year-on-year to 3.49 million tons, boosted by industrial growth and stronger regional exports.
• Europe: Production fell 5.1% year-on-year to 1.54 million tons, reflecting weak domestic demand and high energy costs that continue to weigh on the region’s mills.