Newsletters
Türkiye rose to seventh place among the world's largest crude steel producers in 2025 after increasing output to 38.1 million tons from 36.9 million tons a year earlier, overtaking Germany in the latest global rankings.
The country's rise reflects a broader shift toward stronger steel production in developing economies while output remains largely stagnant in mature markets, a trend expected to continue in the coming years, according to the World Steel Association's World Steel in Figures 2026 report.
Global crude steel production declined to 1.8 billion tons in 2025, with lower output in China driving much of the slowdown. Production also fell across several major steel-producing countries, including Japan, Russia, South Korea, Germany, Mexico, Canada, France and the United Kingdom.
In contrast, Türkiye joined countries including India, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Australia, Portugal and Qatar in expanding steel production.
China retained its position as the world's largest crude steel producer in 2025 with 960.8 million tons, although its output fell from 1 billion to 5.1 million tons a year earlier. India held onto second place after boosting production to 164.9 million tons from 149.4 million tons.
The United States climbed to third with 81.9 million tons, moving ahead of Japan, which produced 80.7 million tons. Russia ranked fifth with 67.9 million tons, followed by South Korea with 62.2 million tons. Germany slipped to eighth after producing 34.1 million tons, while Brazil and Iran rounded out the top 10 with 33.4 million tons and 32 million tons, respectively.
The report attributed Türkiye's stronger performance to resilient domestic demand, recovering export markets, efficient use of production capacity and investments aimed at improving competitiveness.
Veysel Yayan, secretary-general of the Turkish Steel Producers' Association (TCUD), said Türkiye's rise to seventh place highlights the strength of its industrial base and makes it Europe's largest steel producer.
He noted that China is likely to remain the world's leading producer despite slowing output, while India continues to expand steadily and could reach 350 million tons by 2047.
Looking ahead, Yayan said Türkiye could climb another place in the global rankings if it keeps steel imports under control at around 19.5 million tons, potentially overtaking Russia or South Korea in the medium term.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
