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Try the Free AI Search EngineIndia Steel Market Report: Rising Iron Ore Exports and Activity Levels Signal Strong Demand
India’s steel market sentiment is very positive, driven by significant increases in iron ore and pellet exports as reported in “India: Iron ore and pellet exports jump 27 percent m-o-m in November 2025“ and “Iron ore exports from India rose by 27% m/m in November“. These reports correlate directly with enhanced activity levels at key steel plants, notably in preparation for rising demand.
Activity Overview
From June to October 2025, the mean steelplant activity in India fluctuated notably, with a peak of 33.0% in September. Tata Steel BSL’s activity increased to 54.0% in October, aligning with rising domestic production capabilities amid increased export-driven demand, as outlined in “India increased steel exports by 31% y/y in April-November“. Jindal Stainless Hisar maintained high activity levels, peaking at 86.0% in August, reflecting its strong position in the automotive and infrastructure sectors. Lloyds Steel’s activity remained stable at 78.0%.
Tata Steel BSL Dhenkanal Plant
Located in Odisha, Tata Steel BSL operates a hybrid integrated processing approach that includes blast furnace and direct reduced iron technologies. The plant’s activity surged from 51.0% in July to 54.0% in October, paralleling the increase in iron ore exports, as highlighted in the report on rising export figures. The stronger demand in the market signals robust procurement strategies moving forward.
Jindal Stainless Hisar Plant
In Haryana, Jindal Stainless operates entirely on electric arc furnace (EAF) technology, focusing on high-grade stainless steel products. The plant’s activity peaked at 86.0% in August, correlating with increased demand from the automotive and building sectors as noted in the rising steel exports report. This trend positions the plant advantageously amidst shifting market dynamics.
Lloyds Steel Industries Plant
Based in Maharashtra, Lloyds Steel Industries, operating solely under the EAF method, maintained steady activity at 78.0%. Despite facing competitive pressure from Chinese steel, the recent export trends point towards favorable conditions for procurement strategies tailored to high-demand products.
Evaluated Market Implications
The uptick in iron ore exports and steady increase in production activity at key plants suggest potential short-term supply disruptions, particularly if weather anomalies persist or if Chinese demand surges unexpectedly. Steel buyers should consider securing contracts early from Tata Steel and Jindal Stainless to mitigate risk, as they are poised to seize on current export opportunities and respond effectively to fluctuations in market demand. Lloyds Steel offers a reliable option for lower-grade products but may need to adjust pricing strategies to stay competitive due to global market conditions.
In summary, proactive procurement based on these observed trends will be essential for navigating the evolving landscape of the Indian steel market.