An Outokumpu research paper has shown that one in three organisations have paused or delayed stainless steel orders due to tariff upheaval.
The research paper, titled ‘The Evolution of Materials’, presents insights from surveys conducted by 70 senior decisionmakers at companies with a combined revenue of ~$430b (2024).
Kati ter Horst, president and CEO of Outokumpu, commented: “Tariffs and geopolitical shifts are doing more than unsettling markets – they’re forcing many industries to rethink materials sourcing.
“Ongoing uncertainty and shifting regulations are causing disruption. Policymakers globally must act to safeguard vital infrastructure projects and prevent further delays.
“A convergence of political, environmental and economic pressures means a much bigger role for the material in the built environment looking forward.”
The survey results also highlighted that half of the respondents are now re-evaluating their entire sourcing strategy, and 30% have already switched suppliers in response to changing trade conditions.
Despite this caution, two in three anticipate higher stainless steel intake over the next five years, with just under half also expecting an upturn in the next twelve months.
Outokumpu believes the mid-to-long term demand surge is driven by stainless steel’s role in industries, as well as rapid urban growth and sustainable initiatives.
The full paper can be found here.
