Weekly Production Growth & Utilization Metrics

In the week ending May 24, 2025, U.S. domestic raw steel production attained 1,744,000 net tons, registering a 2.0% increase compared to the 1,709,000 net tons produced during the corresponding week in 2024. This uptick coincided with a capability utilization rate of 77.6%, a modest rise from the 76.9% recorded a year earlier. These figures indicate a cautious but perceptible resurgence in steel manufacturing activities amidst broader economic uncertainties.

Comparison with Previous Week’s Performance

The latest production figure also marks a 1.4% increase from the week ending May 17, 2025, when steel output stood at 1,720,000 net tons with a capability utilization rate of 76.6%. This steady week-on-week growth suggests a positive momentum in meeting domestic demand and optimizing production capacities within the industry.

Year-to-Date Output and Trends

Adjusted year-to-date production through May 24, 2025, reached 34,530,000 net tons, operating at a capability utilization rate of 75.2%. Although this represents a slight decline of 0.6% from the 34,752,000 net tons produced during the same period in 2024, the ongoing near-three-quarter utilization rate underscores a stable yet cautious steel production environment over the first five months of the year.

Regional Production Breakdown

Examining the production by district for the week ending May 24, 2025, reveals varied regional contributions to the national steel output. The Southern district led with 755,000 net tons, followed by the Great Lakes at 551,000 net tons. The Midwest contributed 254,000 net tons, the North East accounted for 127,000 net tons, and the Western district added 57,000 net tons. This geographic distribution reflects both industrial capacities and regional market demands.

Economic & Industrial Implications

The incremental increase in steel production aligns with ongoing infrastructure investments and manufacturing sector activities across the U.S. Steel is a foundational material for automotive, construction, and machinery industries. The capability utilization rates near 75-78% indicate that producers maintain a balanced approach between scaling output and managing operational efficiencies in response to fluctuating demand.

4. Key Takeaways:

• U.S. raw steel production increased 2.0% year-on-year to 1,744,000 net tons in the week ending May 24, 2025, with capability utilization at 77.6%.

• Southern and Great Lakes districts dominate regional steel output, together accounting for over 70% of weekly production.

• Year-to-date production is slightly down 0.6% compared to 2024, reflecting a steady but cautious recovery amid industry challenges.