Turkey's Steel Production Rises 7% in March 2025, Pig Iron Output Also Climbs

Pig Iron

Industry Recovers from Near Annual Lows Despite Persistent Global Challenges

According to World Steel Association (WorldSteel), Turkey's steel production rose by 7% month-over-month in March 2025, totaling 3.13 million tons. While production declined 2.8% year-over-year, the figure reflects a rebound from near annual lows.

Turkey’s pig iron production also increased significantly, surging 16.9% m/m to 837,000 tons, the highest level since October 2024. However, it fell 4.9% y/y, echoing the global trend of fluctuating raw material demand.

First Quarter Shows Mixed Signals

From January to March 2025, Turkey produced 9.26 million tons of crude steel, down 3.4% y/y. Pig iron production dropped more steeply, down 11.8% y/y to 2.32 million tons.

In 2024, Turkish steelmakers had achieved solid recovery after two stagnant years. Steel output grew 9.4% to 36.89 million tons, and pig iron production rose 17.2% to 10.19 million tons. Average monthly production reached 3.07 million tons for steel and 848,800 tons for pig iron.

Infrastructure expansion, earthquake recovery efforts, and exports to emerging markets supported 2024's growth. Modernization of facilities also played a key role.

2025 Outlook: Growth with Risks

Despite March’s recovery, WorldSteel forecasts a 1.7% decline in Turkish steel demand in 2025, totaling 35.5 million tons. This follows a 5.5% drop in 2024.

Uncertainties such as price volatility, geopolitical tensions, and Asian market competition continue to challenge Turkish producers. However, government-led infrastructure projects and adoption of green steel technologies may drive longer-term growth.