Market movement
In 2024, iron or non-alloy steel: semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel: containing by weight less than 0.25% of carbon, of rectangular (other than square) cross-section trade exhibited significant decline, with global flows reaching $13,439,054,712 and a three-year compound annual growth rate of -14.3% (five-year: +2.6%). The all-time peak of $21,344,713,975 was recorded in 2021; the current level is 37% below that high-water mark.
Over the 30-year observation window (1995–2024), 55% of years recorded positive growth, indicating a mildly upward trajectory with periodic contractions. Trend momentum is decelerating (-13.6% acceleration).
The World Trade Flows Characterization classifies iron or non-alloy steel: semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel: containing by weight less than 0.25% of carbon, of rectangular (other than square) cross-section as "One-way trade" in the medium price range price segment, providing additional context for market positioning and competitive dynamics.
