India’s Crude Steel Output Rises 10.6% in Apr–Jan; Exports Strengthen Trade Balance

India’s steel sector has delivered a strong performance in the first ten months of FY26, reinforcing its position as a key driver of industrial growth and infrastructure expansion. According to provisional data released by the Joint Plant Committee under the Ministry of Steel, crude steel production rose 10.6% year on year to 138.8 million tonnes during April to January.

Finished steel production also recorded healthy growth of 9.7% during the same period, reaching 132.3 million tonnes. However, consumption expanded at a comparatively slower pace of 6.6%, reflecting temporary disruptions caused by extended monsoon conditions and slower infrastructure execution across major steel consuming sectors such as construction and roads.

A significant highlight of the period is India’s emergence as a net exporter of finished steel. Exports grew 37.2% year on year to 5.48 million tonnes, while imports declined sharply by 41.4% to 4.90 million tonnes. The widening trade surplus indicates improved global competitiveness of Indian mills and a favourable pricing environment in overseas markets.

January data, however, presented a mixed picture. On a month on month basis, crude steel production fell 3.5% and finished steel output declined 3.6%. Consumption also eased 2% compared to December. Despite this short term moderation, exports remained firm and imports continued to contract, reflecting cautious domestic demand and disciplined inventory management.

Industry observers note that while near term volatility persists, structural demand from infrastructure, housing and manufacturing is expected to support steel consumption in the coming quarters. With government capital expenditure likely to accelerate and private investment gradually improving, the sector appears well positioned for steady growth.

The overall trend underscores India’s strengthening role in global steel trade while balancing domestic supply dynamics with export opportunities.