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Positive Outlook for Asia’s Steel Market amid Rising Production Activity and Prices

Recent developments in Asia’s steel market indicate a positive trend, primarily driven by factors outlined in the articles “Global HRC prices rose in most regions at the beginning of the year“ and “Nucor raises hot-rolled coil prices for third consecutive week“. The rise in prices and ongoing adjustments in steel plant activity levels are noteworthy, illustrating a shift towards market stabilization in the region.

Activity data revealed that while the average mean steel plant activity in Asia saw a significant decline to 27% in February 2026, the specific performances at key plants differ. For instance, Shandong Taishan Steel Group Co., Ltd. showed consistent activity levels at 19%, with a marginal increase over the preceding months, reflecting resilience amidst the market fluctuations. In contrast, Habas Aliaga steel plant’s activity dropped sharply to 16% from 28%, signaling potential labor or production-related issues, which may affect local supply chains as referenced in the “US HRC buyers eye imports amid high prices“ article. Guangxi Beigang New Material Co., Ltd. faced a complete drop in activity to 0%, illustrating significant operational challenges that may impact supply continuity and regional pricing dynamics.

Shandong Taishan Steel Group Co., Ltd. operates mainly through an integrated process with a crude steel capacity of 5,000 tons and produces various finished rolled products, including hot and cold rolled coils. This plant’s stable output amid rising prices suggests a potential advantage for procurement professionals looking for reliable supply sources. The recent increases in hot-rolled coil prices globally reinforce this position, especially with Nucor’s strategic price adjustments noted in the market.

In contrast, Habas Aliaga steel plant, focusing on electric arc furnace (EAF) production, remains vulnerable to energy fluctuations with activity dropping from 28% to 16%. This trend, coupled with high domestic prices, places a risk on their procurement options as they might need to rely more heavily on imports, as highlighted by the increase in import interest in the U.S. due to high local prices.

Guangxi Beigang New Material Co., Ltd., however, shows a troubling decline to 0% activity. This complete cessation raises alarms regarding its operational viability and impacts supplier relations across the region, echoing potential supply disruptions in both domestic and international markets.

As a result of this analysis, steel buyers and market analysts are advised to consider the following procurement actions:
– Prioritize sourcing from Shandong Taishan Steel Group Co., Ltd. to secure hot-rolled coil products amidst rising prices and increased demand.
– Monitor Habas Aliaga’s procurement strategies closely, as ongoing drops in activity could indicate delays or increases in pricing that will necessitate proactive sourcing measures.
– Evaluate alternatives in the Southeast Asian import market to diversify supply channels, particularly given the pricing dynamics observed in U.S. imports, which could offer competitive pricing compared to domestic sources.

Overall, while the sentiment across the Asian steel market remains positive, attention should be drawn to specific plants with irregularities that could impact long-term supply stability.