The export market for cast iron in India has been gaining momentum since April 2026, driven by high purchasing interest in the US and other foreign countries. Several manufacturers from eastern and western India have secured significant export orders, while additional export requests continue to emerge. Robust export activity reduced domestic availability, especially in eastern India, which helped support a recovery in pig iron prices despite weak demand and cautious domestic procurement.
Against this backdrop, pig iron exports to India rose to around 0.61 million tonnes in FY26, more than doubling from 0.28 million tonnes in FY25, the strongest export performance in the last five years The rebound in exports comes at a time when domestic production remained largely stable at 8.4 million tonnes in FY26 compared to 8.3 million tonnes in FY25. The combination of stable production and a surge in exports has led to reduced availability of spot goods in the domestic market, allowing producers to maintain firmer supply despite uneven local demand.
US becomes preferred destination
US emerged as key destination for Indian pig iron in April-May 2026, with cumulative the volume of orders exceeded 0.25 million tons. Suppliers from eastern and western India have secured contracts for several bulk cargoes, reflecting increased purchasing of Indian-origin materials by US buyers. Thailand remained another active destination, absorbing around 20,000-22,000 tonnes, while Türkiye
