Steel markets slowing even before impact of Covid-19

摘要

The US steel market has been losing traction on its own without much impact from the coronavirus Covid-19. The uncertainty about the disrupted supply chains and possible influx of steel imports amid lower Chinese consumption has created some worry about US steel consumption and pricing; however, at this point, it is still more theoretical. The US is insulated against direct Chinese steel imports with anti-dumping and countervailing duties and Section 232 (S232) tariffs, but the negative impact on steel consumption from supply chain issueswill more likely to be felt in March.