WV Stahl: German steel industry faces prolonged stagnation despite global recovery

The German Federation of Steel Manufacturers (WV Stahl) said that Germany continues to lag behind industrialized countries, citing a short-term forecast by the World Steel Manufacturers Association (worldsteel). According to Worldsteel, global steel demand is projected to reach about 1.8 billion tons in 2025, with a slight increase of about 1.3 percent expected in 2026, while German demand in 2025 is projected to grow by only 1.5 percent to 27 million tons, with a further increase of 4.6 percent to 28 million tons in 2026.

The German steel market remains under significant pressure

The German steel market is under significant pressure due to weak demand in steel-using sectors, global steel overcapacity, and growing import pressures. Demand remains at historically low levels mainly due to weak consumption in key sectors such as automotive, mechanical engineering, and mechanical engineering. W. V. Stahl calls this a warning signal pointing to global overcapacity, a sharp increase in steel imports to the EU, and structural trade deficits throughout the steel value chain.

WV Stahl calls for urgent steps to support the German steel sector

WV Stahl stresses that without immediate measures to stimulate demand, domestic steel demand cannot be expected to change. The Association notes that the future initiative on financing infrastructure and climate can only come into force in 2027, and calls for urgent action now.

Key recommendations include effective trade protection