U.S. market: Still weak with imports rising

U.S. market: Still weak with imports rising

Analysts predict that import levels in the U.S. are likely to increase in Q3 and that real demand will likely recover over the next 18 months. Insiders report that in March, the U.S. saw imports rise from countries exempt from the 201 measures imposed by the Bush administration. Meanwhile, experts in the steel industry say overall demand remains weak which is keeping the steel supply shortage in check. Steel insiders report there is currently a supply deficit, especially for flat products. This means that new supplies from U.S. restarts are badly needed to assist with the shortage. Insiders report exports are still flowing into the U.S. from mills that were targeted in the 201 sanctions due to higher prices.