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Positive Trends Reshape Europe’s Steel Market: Insights from Italy’s Production Boom and Plant Activity Levels

Italy’s steel industry continues to show signs of recovery, bolstered by a 2.6% increase in crude steel production in February (2026-03-17) and an 8.1% month-over-month surge (2026-03-18). This aligns with satellite-observed activity, which indicates improved operational levels in several key steel plants across Europe.

Recent data reveals that the average activity of European steel plants remained relatively stable, with the mean activity at 26% in March 2026, only slightly fluctuating from 24% in January and February. Specifically, the SIJ Acroni Jesenice steel plant demonstrated consistent activity, maintaining levels around 60%, likely benefiting from the overall uptick in long product demand, which saw a 5% year-on-year rise in February. However, the Sidenor Aceros Especiales Basuri plant experienced a decline with its activity dropping to 43% as it reflected the wider trend of reduced flat product production, which fell 7.4% year-on-year.

Evaluated Plant Insights

• SIJ Acroni Jesenice Steel Plant: Operating at 60% activity, this facility produces primarily flat and rolled products for construction and tools. The recent uptick in long product demand (5% increase), signals potential for sustained orders, warranting proactive procurement strategies.

• Ferrostal Labedy Gliwice Steel Plant: Activity held steady at 32%, consistent with previous months. This plant supplies products for the automotive and construction sectors, indicating that recovery in these sectors could support increased operational efficiency.

• Sidenor Aceros Especiales Basuri Steel Plant: The activity decline to 43% suggests challenges in the flat product sector, affecting supplies to sectors such as automotive and energy. Buyers may need to plan for potential shortages in these areas.

Recommended Actions

• Secure Supplies from the SIJ Acroni Jesenice facility due to its robust activity levels and positive output trends in long-product production, which aligns with rising construction demands.
• Monitor Sidenor Aceros closely for signs of recovery, but consider diversifying procurement sources to mitigate risks associated with its declining activity levels, particularly in flat products.

In conclusion, as Italy’s steel production rebounds, aligning procurement strategies with the positive activity trends indicated by specific plants can safeguard supplies and optimize purchasing decisions for steel buyers.