Brazil Steel Imports Jump 20% in 2025 as Industry Cuts Investment and Jobs

Overview

• Steel imports reached 5.9 million tonnes in 2025, up 20.2%, with 64% of imported flat products coming from China.
• Domestic sales slipped 0.6% through November as mills operated at roughly 68% of installed capacity.
• Companies cut R$2.5 billion in investment, eliminated 5,100 jobs and idled ten units, and the institute estimates a 2.2% drop in 2025 crude steel output.
• Brasília renewed the quota‑tariff regime to May 2026 with a 25% levy above quotas and expanded coverage to 23 items, and it launched a large antidumping probe into 25 Chinese steel products.
• The institute projects imports will rise about 10% in 2026 and expects potential antidumping rulings in the first quarter following talks with key ministers.