Steel News

In the past 2023, Vietnam's HRC export volume recorded exceeding 3.4 million tons, marking a 2.6-fold increase compared to 2022. In December alone, the HRC export volume reached 229 thousand tons, experiencing a 34% decrease compared to November but a significant 19% increase compared to the same period in 2022.Overview of Vietnam's HRC export situation in 2023While domestic steel consumption is perceived as sluggish due to low demand and the domestic real estate sector still showing few signs of recovery, the export volume is considered a rare bright spot in the overall challenging landscape of the steel industry in 2023. Specifically, the sales of HRC in 2023 reached 6.8 million tons, a 10% increase compared to 2022, constituting nearly 26% of the overall steel consumption structure in 2023.Prominent in this field is the HRC export sector, significantly contributing to the overall achievements of the industry. With a figure of 3.4 million tons, the HRC export segment not only accounted for over 50% of the total sales volume but also recorded an impressive 2.6-fold increase compared to the same period in 2022. This is not only a positive sign of the competitiveness of the steel export industry but also reflects innovation and creativity in business strategies, enabling the Vietnamese steel industry to rise above challenging circumstances.The Vietnam’s HRC export volumes by month in 2022 and 2023Formosa Ha Tinh and Hoa Phat continue to maintain their leading and second positions in the production and export of HRC (hot-rolled coil). Formosa's HRC export volume in 2023 reached 2.2 million tons, surging by 46% compared to the export volume in 2022. Additionally, HRC was the only product that recorded positive sales growth for Hoa Phat, with a total volume of 2.8 million tons, a slight 6% increase compared to 2022, including an HRC export volume of 1.15 million tons.Among steel products, hot-rolled coil stands out as the product with the most robust growth. Some experts believe that the hot-rolled coil (HRC) market will recover more quickly due to ongoing strong consumption, especially in the mechanical and processing industries. Compared to construction steel, hot-rolled coil (HRC) not only offers more attractive pricing but also reflects a significant price disparity due to the construction industry's ongoing difficulties and substantial impact from the real estate market, while the mechanical and manufacturing sectors show better signs of recovery.India and Italy are the two main HRC import markets for VietnamBased on customs data, Italy and India emerge as the two largest HRC import markets for Vietnam in 2023. Italy, in particular, imported 1.1 million tons of HRC steel from Vietnam in the past year and in December alone, it continued to lead the HRC import market with a volume of 80,470 tons. Alongside Italy, India became the second-largest importer of HRC for Vietnam, with a total HRC import volume of 694,000 tons in 2023.Although India has been evaluated as a potential steel import market and consistently maintained its position as Vietnam's largest HRC importer in previous months, its import volume significantly decreased in December, plummeting over 85% compared to the previous month, reaching 20 thousand tons. Sources indicate that the primary reason for this decline is the anticipated reduction in India's domestic demand for hot-rolled coil steel, mainly attributed to the upcoming general elections causing disruptions in pricing. Currently, the country's mills are seeking solutions to address excess production by increasing exports to the European market.Top 10 countries with the largest imports of Vietnam's HRC in 2023Malaysia and Indonesia consistently stand out as two countries with stable HRC import volumes from Vietnam, regularly appearing in the top 5 largest HRC importers each month. In 2023, the HRC import volumes for Malaysia and Indonesia reached 464,874 tons and 394,786 tons, respectively. Additionally, in the top 10 HRC importers list, Mexico is the sole representative from the Americas with an import volume of 157,322 tons, while other predominantly European countries include Spain, Portugal, and Belgium.Predictions for the future of Vietnam's HRC export market in 2024The predominance of countries in the European region on the list of HRC importers for Vietnam in 2023 somewhat reflects the competitiveness and quality of Vietnamese steel products in the strategic expansion of export markets and shaping Vietnam's international steel industry position. However, the rankings on this list are expected to undergo significant changes in 2024, particularly among European countries.According to the customs statistics of the EU, as of January 5th, approximately 1.18 million tons of imported HRC are awaiting customs clearance in the EU for the first quarter of 2024, while the permitted quota is 923,594 tons. Within this quantity, the majority consists of shipments from Vietnam, Japan and several other countries. Under the EU's protective measures, any steel products imported beyond the quota will incur tariffs of up to 25%, unintentionally posing a new challenge for the export dynamics of Vietnamese HRC in 2024. Therefore, domestic HRC manufacturers will need to promptly adjust and implement new strategies to maintain their export market share and explore new consumer markets.MRS Steel regularly updates comprehensive information on HRC export volume and the list of importing countries in 2023 based on the latest customs data. If you have further inquiries about specific figures or weekly steel price lists directly from the factories, please contact us via WhatsApp at +84 76 911 2358 or email vanloc@mrssteel.com.vn for the fastest response possible.

With positive developments in consumption output in the final months of 2023, the Vietnam Steel Association (VSA) recently forecasted that the steel industry this year may increase by 10%, driven by expectations of global steel demand recovery.The steel industry and the positive signalsThe strong recovery of the steel industry this year is established against the backdrop of negative impacts from macroeconomic conditions and the 'freeze' of the real estate market in 2023. In the upcoming year, the steel industry is forecasted to experience significant growth, leading to the recovery of profits for businesses within the sector.As we step into 2024, the internal economy displays indications of recovery, bolstered by governmental and sector-specific policies that encourage public investment. It is anticipated that the steel industry in 2024 will witness a growth of 6.4%, reaching nearly 21.6 million tons. Not only in the domestic market, but the volume of Vietnam's steel exports is expected to sustain growth due to the increasing global demand for steel. Accordingly, the export of finished steel and semi-finished products is projected to rise by 12%, reaching nearly 13 million tons. This target is set based on the expectation that Vietnam's GDP will grow by 6–6.5% this year. The increased consumption of the steel industry is largely attributed to the signs of recovery in the real estate market in the fourth quarter of 2023 and real estate projects are expected to boost sales in 2024.The steel industry relies on the market's recoveryAt present, the economy has recorded some bright spots regarding policies to remove difficulties, promote public investment and stimulate economic growth issued by the government and various ministries. Accordingly, the Vietnam Steel Association (VSA) also forecasts that the prospects for Vietnam's steel production may increase by about 10% in 2024 and 8% in 2025 as the demand for steel from domestic economic sectors recovers.The forecast for the production of finished steel in the period 2024–2025 is expected to reach approximately 28–30 million tons, with domestic steel consumption ranging from 21-22.5 million tons. The primary drivers for steel consumption stem from the gradual recovery of the real estate market. The government and various ministries are actively investing in and developing infrastructure and implementing public projects. This concerted effort is poised to revitalize the domestic steel industry, leading to a surge in profits for steel manufacturers after a prolonged period of losses and inventory challenges. Although actual steel consumption by end consumers has not fully recovered as anticipated, the price surge at the beginning of 2024 was predicted by steel industry experts since the end of 2023, when production material costs continuously increased for several weeks. With the momentum of the recovery, steel prices are forecast to continue rising before the Lunar New Year, possibly surpassing the 15 million VND per ton mark.Therefore, all enterprises in the steel industry expect the government, as well as relevant ministries and departments, to implement stronger policies to support the real estate market and promote the development of the steel market in 2024.

According to data from the General Department of Customs, iron and steel exports of all kinds in December 2023 increased sharply, reaching more than 1.08 million tons with a value of 707 million USD, an increase of 18.12% in volume and 13.81% in value compared to November 2023; increase 34.4% in volume and 27.7% in value compared to the same period in 2022.According to the Vietnam Steel Association (VSA), in December, construction steel and high-quality steel of all types recorded the highest consumption in the past 20 months. Exports of iron and steel of all kinds in December 2023 also increased sharply, reaching more than 1.08 million tons with a value of 707 million USD. For the whole year 2023, iron and steel exports of all kinds reached nearly 11.13 million tons with a value of 8.35 billion USD, +32.6% in volume and +4.5% in value compared to 2022.In December 2023, the top 10 largest import markets for Vietnamese flat steel were the United States accounting for 14.95%, Italy at 12.4%, Cambodia at 8.7%, Mexico at 7.8%, Malaysia at 6.3%, Indonesia at 5.2%, Colakoglu at 5%, Belgium at 4.9%, India at 4.9% and Spain at 4.1%.Conversely, Vietnam's imports of iron and steel in December 2023 reached 1.17 million tons with a value of 741 million USD, -22.1% in volume and -18.3% in value compared to the previous month; +22.7% in volume and +6.7% in value over the same period in 2022. For the whole year 2023, imports of iron and steel of all kinds will reach 13.3 million tons with a value of 10.43 billion USD, +14.1% in volume but -12.6% in value compared to 2022. One of the businesses with the most positive business results in December 2023 was Hoa Phat Group. HPG produced 648,000 tons of crude steel, an increase of 4% compared to November 2023. The consumption of hot rolled steel coils, construction steel and steel billets reached 760,000 tons, an increase of 7% compared to November and the highest in 2023. For export markets, Hoa Phat exported 113,000 tons of construction steel and high-quality steel to make wire rods and welding rod cores. Main export markets were Canada, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Australia, Sri Lanka,...In addition to high-quality steel, Hoa Phat also exported 103,000 tons of HRC in December 2023. HPG is the group with the largest crude steel capacity in Vietnam and Southeast Asia with 8.5 million tons/year, leading in construction steel market share and among the top 5 largest Vietnamese galvanized steel manufacturers.Entering 2024, Vietnam's steel industry is also recording many positive signs of recovery as both production and consumption show signs of strong growth. For the export market, recovering demand in the EU and US has a positive impact on export output and price of galvanized steel. Export steel prices are expected to increase by 9% in 2024.MRS Steel is a provider of quality, convenient and time-saving Vietnamese steel import solutions. Our team of market analysis, marketing and supply experts provide the latest market and price reports to help importers clearly understand Vietnamese steel industry. If you have any questions or need to import Vietnamese steel, please contact MRS Steel via Email: vanloc@mrssteel.com.vn or Hotline: +842836223358 for the most thoughtful support!

According to the International Stainless Steel Forum, it is predicted that stainless steel consumption will increase by 3.6% in 2024. With the stability of interest rates and inventory levels at supply chain centers, stainless steel demand in the EU is expected to recover in the second half of 2024.1. European stainless steel market situation in 2024In 2023, the EU's stainless steel industry faced challenges with reduced production due to low demand and the impact of high inflation. However, entering 2024, experts predict positive developments and a recovery in the European steel industry.The improved macroeconomic situation is considered the main factor influencing the recovery of the European stainless steel market. The Government plans to accelerate projects on renewable energy sources, especially wind and solar energy, aiming to increase the consumption of renewable energy to at least 40% by 2030. This requires a large amount of stainless steel because their characteristics and strength ensure the safety and efficiency of the project.2. The global stainless steel industry prospered in 2024In 2023, the global stainless steel industry recovered by 2.3% and this positive signal has not stopped yet as WorldSteel predicts steel demand will continue to grow by 1.7% in 2024. The consumption of flat-rolled stainless steel is expected to grow the fastest at 5.2% compared to 2023, followed by cold rolled steel and long steel with rates of 3.2% and 3.7%. respectively. The regions predicted to have the highest stainless steel consumption are Asia (excluding China) with 5.6%, followed by the EU, Africa, and China.3. Vietnam gradually becomes a global stainless steel supplierVietnam maintained its position as the largest steel producer in Southeast Asia with 23 million tons of crude steel and 33 million tons of finished steel products of all kinds shipped in 2021. Once a country with the smallest economy in Asia, Vietnam Nam has risen to 13th position worldwide in crude steel output in 2022, exporting steel products to more than 30 countries in the region and worldwide.In 2024, Vietnam will continue to promote projects to upgrade stainless steel production systems such as Senzimir rolling machines, 1300mm wide rolling technology, advanced equipment and machinery from Tenova, Danieli,... These investment efforts have helped steel products fully meet international standards such as ASTM, JIS, BS, EN,... and design and size requirements from customers.Importing goods often takes a lot of time and effort to find sources of goods, manage the transportation process and control risks, especially high-value goods such as iron and steel. To solve the above difficult problems, many customers have chosen import support units to optimize costs and time.MRS Steel is an enterprise specializing in providing solutions for importing Vietnamese steel to many large markets such as the United States, Europe, Italy, Spain,... Owning a network connecting the largest factories in Vietnam such as Hoa Phat, Hoa Sen Steel Sheet, Nam Kim, SY Vina,... MRS Steel will bring quality goods at the best prices to importers. In particular, a team of experienced market analysis, business and supply experts will support customers throughout the entire import process, warranty commitments and resolve complaints and arising problems.From predictions about stainless steel demand in Europe in 2024, factories and importers can plan their business and development in the new context. For any questions about the Vietnamese stainless steel market, importers can contact MRS Steel via Hotline: +84 28 36 22 33 58 or Email: vanloc@mrssteel.com.vn for the most detailed advice.

The SMC Trading and Investment Company has just announced its business plan for 2024. According to the plan, SMC aims to achieve a consumption output of 900,000 tons of various types of steel with an after-tax profit of 80 billion VND.In 2023, the business incurred significant lossesIn 2023, SMC Investment and Trading Joint Stock Company experienced a significant decline in business results compared to the previous year. At the beginning of the year, the company set a post-tax profit target of 150 billion VND. However, after the first nine months, the business situation did not look promising. In Q3/2023 alone, SMC achieved a consolidated net revenue of 3.141 trillion VND, a 44% decrease compared to the same period last year.Operating below cost, along with various expenses, led to SMC incurring a post-tax loss of 178 billion VND, compared to a loss of 219 billion VND in the same period. Accumulated over the first nine months of the year, SMC recorded a gross revenue of 10,574 billion VND, a 44% decrease compared to the same period in 2022. By the end of 2023, SMC reported a total loss of 586 billion VND, wiping out accumulated undistributed profits of more than 343 billion VND recorded at the beginning of the year. This resulted in an accumulated loss of 205.8 billion VND on the balance sheet as of September 30, 2023.SMC is not only facing business difficulties, but its debt recovery situation is also stagnant as real estate enterprises, lacking significant revenue sources, contribute to its substantial losses. By the end of September 2023, SMC had more than 1,300 billion VND in bad debts, of which 98% were short-term debts. The majority of these debts were from real estate companies associated with Novaland.In the context of challenging business operations, the Board of Directors of SMC has unanimously agreed on the strategy to streamline production and business activities, reduce personnel across the entire SMC system, and cut down on all arising expenses. In November 2023, the company's Board of Directors approved the transfer of the right to use 6,197 square meters of land at SMC Binh Duong-Dong An Industrial Park.Business plan for SMC in 2024The profit picture for the business in 2023 wasn't very bright. Recently, SMC Trading and Investment Company announced its business plan for 2024. Accordingly, SMC aims to achieve a consumption output of 900,000 tons of various types of steel in 2024, with an expected after-tax profit of 80 billion VND. This is considered a positive figure compared to the significant loss of 586 billion VND in the first nine months of 2023 and the accumulated undistributed loss as of September 30, 2023, which stood at 205.8 billion VND.Additionally, the Board of Directors of SMC has also approved a plan to pre-purchase the bond batch worth 200 billion VND with the code SMC 2124001, bearing a fixed interest rate of 8.2% per annum, issued in August 2021 (due in August 2024). The collateral for this bond includes 9.1 million NKG shares of Nam Kim Steel Corporation and SMC shares owned by a third party. SMC stated that the anticipated repurchase date is June 2, 2024 (6 months before maturity), after reaching an agreement with the bondholders and obtaining approval from the relevant authorities. The current bondholders in this batch are Shinhan Vietnam Limited Liability One Member Bank and Shinhan Vietnam Limited Liability Securities Company.

The steel industry has gradually regained growth in recent times. Predictions suggest that the demand for steel exports is expected to recover in the coming quarters, given the high domestic selling prices in the EU, the US, and Asian countries.According to a recent steel industry outlook report, VCBS Securities Company stated that steel production activities have shown signs of recovery in the mid-2023 period, contributing to an increase in the overall supply. This comes as manufacturers return to profitability after adjustments in input costs such as ore and coal, supporting profit margins. Additionally, a more positive hydroelectric output is further bolstering the energy supply for steel production mills.The export volume of construction steel also demonstrates a strong recovery for the steel industry since August 2023, as China gradually reduces competition in the export of construction steel towards the end of the year. Specifically, in November, Vietnamese enterprises exported over 7.4 million tons of steel, a 29% increase compared to the same period last year. The main export markets include ASEAN, the EU, the US, India, and Taiwan, among others. As for galvanized products, although the export volume has not reached the levels of 2021, it has shown a significant recovery compared to the low point in August 2022. A substantial contribution to this recovery comes from the export of steel to the EU market, where the supply has been heavily affected by the earthquake in Turkey and ongoing energy shortages.Regarding the export market outlook, demand for the export market will remain positive in 2024. Specifically, according to the forecast by the World Steel Association (WSA), global steel consumption is expected to grow by 1.9% in 2024. The substantial recovery in many countries, such as Europe and the United States, is expected to have a positive impact on the production and prices of exported galvanized steel, with export steel prices expected to increase by 9% in 2024, improving the gross profit margins of steel exporting companies. Additionally, China, as the largest and least dynamically growing country in 2024, is projected to have steel consumption growth of only 0%. This presents an opportunity for the Vietnamese steel industry to boost exports to other potential countries.If the export market expands, the steel industry can benefit from increased exports of its products. However, alongside this, fluctuations in international trade policies can impact the steel industry. Trade protection measures or changes in tariffs may present new challenges or opportunities for steel businesses. Therefore, steel enterprises are compelled to seek and maintain new export markets to ensure diversity and stability in income sources. Generally, in 2024, the steel industry is expected to see signs of recovery from the export market. Particularly in major markets such as the EU, Mexico,.. This will be an opportunity for Vietnamese steel businesses to establish and develop the Vietnamese steel brand on the global steel map.