Primary Steel Imports Increase 9% in the First Four Months of 2026

South Africa imported 600 614 tonnes of primary steel products (excluding stainless, wire and rail) during the first four months of 2026, a 9% increase from the 550 941 tonnes imported during the corresponding period in 2025.

The increase was driven by strong growth in several key product categories, particularly long steel products. Imports of hot rolled sections increased from 4 023 tonnes to 29 418 tonnes, while reinforcing bar imports rose from 1 316 tonnes to 8 981 tonnes. Wire rod imports recorded the most significant increase, reaching 24 393 tonnes compared with just 114 tonnes during the same period in 2025. Imports of other bars and rods also more than quadrupled to 53 907 tonnes.

Flat steel products continued to account for the largest share of imports. Hot-dip galvanised sheet remained the single largest import category at 120 852 tonnes, while hot rolled coil, sheet and plate coil imports reached 99 516 tonnes. Cold rolled sheet imports increased by 19% year-on-year to 60 350 tonnes.

Despite declines in some categories, including plate products and certain coated steel products, overall import volumes remained elevated across a broad range of steel products.

These trends underline the continued competitive pressures facing South Africa’s steel sector and highlight the importance of effective trade measures to protect domestic production and sustain local industry.