As per Intent Market Research, the Iron and Steel Market was valued at USD 1,895.7 billion in 2024-e and will surpass USD 2,798.5 billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 6.7% during 2025 - 2030.
The iron and steel market plays a crucial role in the global economy, providing the essential raw materials for industries such as construction, automotive, and machinery. Iron and steel are fundamental to modern infrastructure and technological advancements, and the market has seen steady growth due to the increasing demand for durable, versatile, and cost-effective materials. Steel, in particular, is a key material used in the production of consumer goods, transportation equipment, and heavy machinery, making it a critical part of industrial supply chains.
In recent years, the market has experienced shifts driven by technological innovations, such as advanced steel-making techniques that improve product quality, reduce costs, and lower environmental impacts. Additionally, the rise of emerging economies, especially in Asia, has contributed to an increase in the demand for iron and steel as urbanization, industrialization, and infrastructure development continue at a rapid pace. The market is also influenced by factors such as government regulations, trade policies, and fluctuating raw material prices, which can impact production and pricing strategies.
Carbon Steel Segment Dominates Product Type Category Owing to Versatility and Cost-effectiveness
The carbon steel segment holds the largest share in the iron and steel market due to its versatility, wide range of applications, and cost-effectiveness. Carbon steel is a vital component in the production of construction materials, automotive parts, and machinery. This type of steel is commonly used in applications requiring strength, durability, and low cost, making it the most widely produced and consumed type of steel worldwide.
The production of carbon steel is less expensive compared to other types of steel, making it an attractive choice for industries looking to balance cost and performance. Carbon steel is also available in various grades, each tailored to specific applications, from low-carbon steel used in the manufacturing of pipes and structural components to high-carbon steel used in cutting tools and industrial equipment. The continued demand for carbon steel is expected to sustain its dominance in the market, especially as construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries grow globally.
Construction Segment Leads in Application Category Due to Ongoing Infrastructure Developments
The construction segment dominates the iron and steel market, owing to the substantial demand for these materials in the construction of buildings, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. Iron and steel are the backbone of construction, with their strength, durability, and ability to be molded into various shapes making them essential materials for structural components such as beams, columns, and reinforcement bars.
With the rapid pace of urbanization and infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies, the demand for iron and steel in construction is projected to remain strong. Governments around the world continue to invest heavily in infrastructure projects to boost economic growth, driving the demand for steel in construction. Additionally, innovations in construction techniques, such as the use of high-strength steel alloys for skyscrapers and bridges, further contribute to the growth of this segment. As construction activities increase globally, iron and steel's role in this sector will continue to be a major driver of market demand.
Automotive Segment Continues to Grow in Response to Increased Vehicle Production
The automotive segment is also a significant consumer of iron and steel, as these materials are essential for producing a variety of automotive components such as chassis, body parts, and engine components. The automotive industry's continued growth, particularly in emerging markets, is driving the demand for steel in vehicle manufacturing. Iron and steel offer the strength, durability, and formability required for automotive applications, making them critical materials in the production of cars, trucks, and other vehicles.
The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and advancements in automotive technology are influencing the types of steel used in manufacturing. For instance, high-strength steel alloys are being used to reduce the weight of vehicles, improving fuel efficiency and safety. The automotive industry’s focus on lightweight materials and advanced manufacturing techniques continues to fuel the demand for specialized steel products. With the ongoing increase in vehicle production, particularly in Asia, the automotive sector is expected to remain a key driver of iron and steel demand.
Global Iron and Steel Market Continues to Be Driven by Asia-Pacific Region
The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for iron and steel, owing to its substantial contribution to global industrial production, urbanization, and infrastructure development. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are major producers and consumers of iron and steel, with China being the world’s largest steel producer and consumer. The continued industrialization and urban growth in these countries, along with government investments in infrastructure, are key factors driving the demand for iron and steel in the region.
In China, the demand for steel is primarily driven by construction and manufacturing, with the country continuing to invest in large-scale infrastructure projects and the expansion of its manufacturing sector. Additionally, the growing middle class and rapid urbanization in India and Southeast Asia are increasing the demand for steel in the construction and automotive sectors. As these economies continue to grow, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to remain the dominant market for iron and steel products, contributing significantly to global market expansion.
Competitive Landscape
The global iron and steel market is highly competitive, with several large players dominating production and distribution. Major companies in the market include ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel Corporation, Baosteel Group, POSCO, and Tata Steel, among others. These companies focus on maintaining their competitive edge through innovations in steel production technologies, cost reduction strategies, and expanding their global presence.
To meet the growing demand for high-quality steel, manufacturers are investing in advanced production techniques, such as electric arc furnaces and direct reduced iron processes, which offer greater energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. Additionally, companies are diversifying their product offerings, focusing on high-strength, lightweight steels for use in automotive and construction applications. As the market continues to evolve, competition will intensify, with companies seeking to capitalize on emerging trends such as sustainability and technological advancements in steel production.
Recent Developments:
- In December 2024, ArcelorMittal announced the expansion of its green steel production capabilities in Europe to meet increasing demand for sustainable steel.
- In November 2024, POSCO launched a new line of stainless steel products designed for the automotive industry, focusing on lightweight and high-strength materials.
- In October 2024, Tata Steel entered into a joint venture with a leading automotive manufacturer to develop advanced automotive steels.
- In September 2024, United States Steel Corporation introduced a new line of high-carbon steel products designed for the energy and industrial sectors.
- In August 2024, Hesteel Group unveiled plans to increase its production of environmentally friendly steel to reduce carbon emissions from its manufacturing processes.
List of Leading Companies:
- ArcelorMittal
- China Baowu Steel Group
- Nippon Steel Corporation
- POSCO
- Hesteel Group
- JFE Steel Corporation
- Tata Steel
- United States Steel Corporation
- Hyundai Steel
- Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)
- Nucor Corporation
- Ansteel Group Corporation
- Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (CSN)
- Sumitomo Metal Mining
- BaoSteel
Report Scope:
Report Features |
Description |
Market Size (2024-e) |
USD 1,895.7 billion |
Forecasted Value (2030) |
USD 2,798.5 billion |
CAGR (2025 – 2030) |
6.7% |
Base Year for Estimation |
2024-e |
Historic Year |
2023 |
Forecast Period |
2025 – 2030 |
Report Coverage |
Market Forecast, Market Dynamics, Competitive Landscape, Recent Developments |
Segments Covered |
Iron and Steel Market By Product Type (Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel), By Application (Construction, Automotive, Machinery & Equipment) |
Regional Analysis |
North America (US, Canada, Mexico), Europe (Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, and Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, India, and Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, and Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Rest of Middle East & Africa) |
Major Companies |
ArcelorMittal, China Baowu Steel Group, Nippon Steel Corporation, POSCO, Hesteel Group, JFE Steel Corporation, Tata Steel, United States Steel Corporation, Hyundai Steel, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), Nucor Corporation, Ansteel Group Corporation, Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (CSN), Sumitomo Metal Mining, BaoSteel |
Customization Scope |
Customization for segments, region/country-level will be provided. Moreover, additional customization can be done based on the requirements |
1. Introduction |
1.1. Market Definition |
1.2. Scope of the Study |
1.3. Research Assumptions |
1.4. Study Limitations |
2. Research Methodology |
2.1. Research Approach |
2.1.1. Top-Down Method |
2.1.2. Bottom-Up Method |
2.1.3. Factor Impact Analysis |
2.2. Insights & Data Collection Process |
2.2.1. Secondary Research |
2.2.2. Primary Research |
2.3. Data Mining Process |
2.3.1. Data Analysis |
2.3.2. Data Validation and Revalidation |
2.3.3. Data Triangulation |
3. Executive Summary |
3.1. Major Markets & Segments |
3.2. Highest Growing Regions and Respective Countries |
3.3. Impact of Growth Drivers & Inhibitors |
3.4. Regulatory Overview by Country |
4. Iron and Steel Market, by Product Type (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2023 – 2030) |
4.1. Carbon Steel |
4.1.1. Low Carbon Steel |
4.1.2. High Carbon Steel |
4.2. Stainless Steel |
4.2.1. Austenitic Stainless Steel |
4.2.2. Ferritic Stainless Steel |
4.2.3. Martensitic Stainless Steel |
4.3. Alloy Steel |
4.4. Others |
5. Iron and Steel Market, by Application (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2023 – 2030) |
5.1. Construction |
5.1.1. Buildings |
5.1.2. Infrastructure |
5.2. Automotive |
5.2.1. Vehicles |
5.2.2. Automotive Parts |
5.3. Machinery & Equipment |
5.3.1. Industrial Machinery |
5.3.2. Construction Equipment |
5.4. Others |
6. Regional Analysis (Market Size & Forecast: USD Million, 2023 – 2030) |
6.1. Regional Overview |
6.2. North America |
6.2.1. Regional Trends & Growth Drivers |
6.2.2. Barriers & Challenges |
6.2.3. Opportunities |
6.2.4. Factor Impact Analysis |
6.2.5. Technology Trends |
6.2.6. North America Iron and Steel Market, by Product Type |
6.2.7. North America Iron and Steel Market, by Application |
6.2.8. By Country |
6.2.8.1. US |
6.2.8.1.1. US Iron and Steel Market, by Product Type |
6.2.8.1.2. US Iron and Steel Market, by Application |
6.2.8.2. Canada |
6.2.8.3. Mexico |
*Similar segmentation will be provided for each region and country |
6.3. Europe |
6.4. Asia-Pacific |
6.5. Latin America |
6.6. Middle East & Africa |
7. Competitive Landscape |
7.1. Overview of the Key Players |
7.2. Competitive Ecosystem |
7.2.1. Level of Fragmentation |
7.2.2. Market Consolidation |
7.2.3. Product Innovation |
7.3. Company Share Analysis |
7.4. Company Benchmarking Matrix |
7.4.1. Strategic Overview |
7.4.2. Product Innovations |
7.5. Start-up Ecosystem |
7.6. Strategic Competitive Insights/ Customer Imperatives |
7.7. ESG Matrix/ Sustainability Matrix |
7.8. Manufacturing Network |
7.8.1. Locations |
7.8.2. Supply Chain and Logistics |
7.8.3. Product Flexibility/Customization |
7.8.4. Digital Transformation and Connectivity |
7.8.5. Environmental and Regulatory Compliance |
7.9. Technology Readiness Level Matrix |
7.10. Technology Maturity Curve |
7.11. Buying Criteria |
8. Company Profiles |
8.1. ArcelorMittal |
8.1.1. Company Overview |
8.1.2. Company Financials |
8.1.3. Product/Service Portfolio |
8.1.4. Recent Developments |
8.1.5. IMR Analysis |
*Similar information will be provided for other companies |
8.2. China Baowu Steel Group |
8.3. Nippon Steel Corporation |
8.4. POSCO |
8.5. Hesteel Group |
8.6. JFE Steel Corporation |
8.7. Tata Steel |
8.8. United States Steel Corporation |
8.9. Hyundai Steel |
8.10. Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) |
8.11. Nucor Corporation |
8.12. Ansteel Group Corporation |
8.13. Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (CSN) |
8.14. Sumitomo Metal Mining |
8.15. BaoSteel |
9. Appendix |
A comprehensive market research approach was employed to gather and analyze data on the Iron and Steel Market. In the process, the analysis was also done to analyze the parent market and relevant adjacencies to measure the impact of them on the Iron and Steel Market. The research methodology encompassed both secondary and primary research techniques, ensuring the accuracy and credibility of the findings.
Secondary Research
Secondary research involved a thorough review of pertinent industry reports, journals, articles, and publications. Additionally, annual reports, press releases, and investor presentations of industry players were scrutinized to gain insights into their market positioning and strategies.
Primary Research
Primary research involved conducting in-depth interviews with industry experts, stakeholders, and market participants across the E-Waste Management ecosystem. The primary research objectives included:
- Validating findings and assumptions derived from secondary research
- Gathering qualitative and quantitative data on market trends, drivers, and challenges
- Understanding the demand-side dynamics, encompassing end-users, component manufacturers, facility providers, and service providers
- Assessing the supply-side landscape, including technological advancements and recent developments
Market Size Assessment
A combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches was utilized to analyze the overall size of the Iron and Steel Market. These methods were also employed to assess the size of various subsegments within the market. The market size assessment methodology encompassed the following steps:
- Identification of key industry players and relevant revenues through extensive secondary research
- Determination of the industry's supply chain and market size, in terms of value, through primary and secondary research processes
- Calculation of percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns using secondary sources and verification through primary sources
Data Triangulation
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the market size, data triangulation was implemented. This involved cross-referencing data from various sources, including demand and supply side factors, market trends, and expert opinions. Additionally, top-down and bottom-up approaches were employed to validate the market size assessment.
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