SAISI Short Range Outlook: Gradual Recovery Expected for South African Steel Demand in 2026-27

SAISI’s Short Range Outlook for the August 2026 survey points to a gradual recovery in South African steel demand rather than a sharp rebound. Apparent steel use held broadly steady at about 4.4 million tonnes in 2025, but growth remains constrained by low fixed investment, high energy and transport costs, rail and port inefficiencies, and strong import competition. The strongest upside lies in infrastructure, rail and logistics reform, and electricity and grid investment, provided announced projects translate into actual procurement and local steel orders.