India Becomes Net Exporter of Finished Steel in 2025/26 – Data Shows

India has regained its position as a net exporter of finished steel for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, marking a significant turnaround in the country’s trade balance after two years of being a net importer.

According to provisional government data, India’s finished steel exports rose sharply by about 36% year-on-year to roughly 6.6 million metric tonnes, slightly exceeding imports, which fell to around 6.5 million tonnes during the same period.

The shift was driven by a combination of rising exports and declining imports. Shipments to international markets were boosted by strong demand in Europe and Southeast Asia, while imports dropped significantly due to reduced reliance on foreign steel and policy measures aimed at protecting domestic producers.

Industry data also shows that exports between April and February climbed to over 6 million tonnes, while imports fell by more than a third, further reinforcing India’s return to net exporter status.

Key export destinations included countries such as Italy, Vietnam, Belgium, and Spain, reflecting India’s growing footprint in global steel markets.

The development highlights the expanding capacity of India’s steel sector, supported by ongoing investments and increasing competitiveness of locally produced steel. Government data indicates that production growth has outpaced domestic consumption, allowing more supply to be directed toward exports.

However, analysts caution that the outlook remains uncertain. Potential challenges include tightening trade restrictions in Europe, geopolitical tensions, and fluctuating global demand, all of which could affect export momentum in the coming year.

India, the world’s second-largest crude steel producer, had been a net importer in the previous fiscal years, making this shift a notable milestone for the country’s industrial and trade performance.