US steel production hits six-month low amid consumption decline

United States raw steel production fell to a six-month low during the week ending September 19, 2026, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Total output was estimated at 1,785,000 short tons, a 6.1% decrease from the previous week, driven largely by declines in the South, West, and Midwest regions. Despite this weekly drop, year-to-date production remains 5.5% higher than the same period in 2025.

Long-term data indicates a decline in domestic steel consumption. The annual average consumption between 2019 and 2025 was approximately 94 million tons, compared to an average of 104 million tons between 2000 and 2017.

Market prices for steel in the U.S. have seen significant increases following various tariff implementations. While worldwide steel prices have remained relatively stable, U.S. prices rose from an average of $758 per ton in January 2025 to as high as $1,200 per ton by mid-2025.