India Remains Net Finished Steel Importer as April-August Purchases Hit ₹36,194 Crore

India remained a net importer of finished steel during April-August 2026, with inbound shipments valued at ₹36,193.9 crore, according to official Steel Ministry data. Finished steel imports increased 29.5% year-on-year to around 3.49 million tonnes (MT), compared with about 2.69 MT in the same period last year. The value of imports climbed 38.3%, highlighting continued demand for overseas steel products. China, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and Vietnam were among India’s leading suppliers. Major imported products included hot-rolled coils and strips, cold-rolled coils and sheets, galvanized steel, plates, bars and rods. In August alone, finished steel imports reached 0.72 MT, valued at ₹7,863.1 crore. India’s finished steel exports also strengthened, rising 34.1% to 2.98 MT during April-August. Export value increased to ₹23,646.6 crore, with Vietnam, the UAE, Italy, Belgium and Nepal emerging as key destinations. The figures underline India’s growing steel demand while reinforcing efforts to expand domestic production of high-value and specialty steel.