Russia remains the largest supplier of slabs to Turkey in January-April 2026, as Vietnam and Algeria strengthen their positions

According to preliminary data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK), in April of this year, imports of slabs to Turkey amounted to 280,747 metric tons, which is 56.5 percent more than in March and 5.7 percent less year-on-year. Meanwhile, revenue from these imports totaled $132.93 million, up 59.7 percent from the previous month and down 4.8 percent year-on-year.

In the period from January to April, the import of slabs to Turkey amounted to 898,047 tons, which is 27.2 percent less, and the cost of these imports decreased by 30.5 percent to 420.06 US dollars. million, both year-on-year.

Import of slabs to Turkey - the last 12 months

During this period, Russia was the largest source of slab imports to Turkey, which supplied 450,558 tons, which is 31.1 percent less than last year. Russia was followed by Malaysia with 152,718 tons, which is 57.7 percent less, and Algeria with 143,773 tons, an increase of 9.8 percent.

In terms of total tonnage, imports of slabs to Turkey decreased by 27.2 percent year-on-year to 898,047 tons between January and April. However, a 56.5% month-on-month increase in imports in April to 280,747 tons suggests a partial recovery in purchases after the weak trend seen in the first quarter. However, April tonnage remained 5.7 percent lower compared to the same period last year, indicating that demand has not fully strengthened and that buyers continue to act selectively depending on price, origin, duty advantages and shipping conditions. Market developments also indicate that flows of Russian rolled products and slabs are becoming increasingly important in the flat rolled steel trade in Turkey in 2026 amid provenance checks and trade measures, while Malaysian slabs continue to benefit from duties under the free trade agreement. CountryAmount (meters)January-April 2026January-April 2025Change from last year (%)April 2026April 2025Change from last year (%)Russia