Steel exports from USA increased 2.2% in July over June according to government reporting.

“NAFTA steel demand improved in July compared to June by 6% offsetting declines in other smaller international markets. NAFTA market’s increase reflects the timing of the stronger mid-summer market conditions experienced at that time. Whether increased pricing in many steel markets – especially flat rolled – has staying power or is an inventory replenishment driven cycle remains to be seen,” said David Phelps, president, AIIS.

For the year to date compared to 2012, exports were 9.5% lower at 7.569M stons but exports in July 2013 at 1.087M stons were 0.3% higher than in July 2012.

Overall steel demand continues to be weaker in all international markets in 2013. While the slight improvement in July 2013 compared to 2012 is positive, the level of exports for the month remains below healthy levels, concluded Phelps.