North America’s carbon steel business revenue totaled USD 75.0 billion in 2022. Over the forecast period, demand for carbon steel in North America is expected to increase at a 4.9% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). The region's total carbon steel business value is predicted to grow from USD 78.1 billion in 2023 to USD 125.6 billion by 2033.
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| North America Carbon Steel Business Base Value in 2022 | USD 75.0 billion |
| Estimated North America Carbon Steel Business Sales Value (2023) | USD 78.1 billion |
| Projected North America Carbon Steel Business Revenue (2033) | USD 125.6 billion |
| Value-based North America Carbon Steel Business CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.9% |
| Collective Value Share: Top 5 Countries (2023E) | 55% to 65% |
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Revenue in North America to Expand Around 1.6X through 2033
According to the latest analysis, North America's carbon steel revenue is projected to increase by 1.6 times by 2033. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for resilient and cost-effective steel, which is utilized in various sectors, including defense, automotive, and shipbuilding.
In the defense and shipbuilding businesses, carbon steel is highly favored for its exceptional durability and strength. Its corrosion-resistant properties make it particularly suitable for marine applications, and it is used in the construction of ships, submarines, and other naval equipment.
Carbon steel’s cost-effectiveness is an advantage in both sectors, where cost is a crucial factor. Hence, the demand for carbon steel in the defense and shipbuilding sectors is expected to increase due to its unique properties, ensuring sales growth in the region.
Carbon steel's properties, including durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness, make it an ideal choice for a wide range of businesses across North America. These include automotive, building & construction, and consumer appliances.
Key carbon steel companies will need to be prepared to adapt to changing business conditions. They also need to evolve their business strategies and expand their carbon steel supply chain in North America to capitalize on the growth opportunities presented by this expanding sector.
United States to Remain a Key Revenue-Generation Pocket for Companies
According to the latest analysis, the United States is expected to present significant revenue-generating opportunities for carbon steel manufacturers during the assessment period. This is attributed to the following factors:
The growing adoption of carbon steel as a manufacturing material in diverse sectors across North America is expected to boost sales growth. It is widely used in businesses such as automotive, building & construction, and defense due to its weldability, formability, strength, and ability to be heat-treated to modify its mechanical properties.
The applications for carbon steel are diverse, with every business, from consumer goods to automotive, utilizing carbon steel parts in various forms. Rapid industrial growth in the region will continue to serve as a catalyst, driving demand for carbon steel. Similarly, the expansion of the steel product sector in North America is set to drive demand for carbon steel.
The North American carbon steel business is fueled by the region's robust industrial base, infrastructure development, and growing construction and automotive demand. However, the industry contributes 7% of global carbon emissions, prompting a growing emphasis on decarbonization strategies.
Decarbonization of the carbon steel business is crucial for addressing the climate crisis and achieving economy-wide net-zero emissions by 2050. The company is exploring several low-carbon production technologies, including the replacement of coal with green hydrogen and the testing of biomass as an alternative fuel. However, the transition to green steel is still in its early stages, and United States-based steelmakers are yet to come up with serious proposals for decarbonization.
North America’s carbon steel industry is poised for growth, driven by the robust industrial sector, infrastructure development, and increasing demand from the automotive and construction sectors. However, the business faces challenges related to high carbon emissions, requiring companies to explore decarbonization strategies for sustainable growth.
Despite these challenges, the versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness of carbon steel make it a popular choice for various industrial and infrastructure projects, including equipment manufacturing, bridges, highways, pipelines, and tunnels. Hence, North America’s carbon steel business presents both challenges and opportunities for future growth and sustainability.
Sales of carbon steel across North America grew at a CAGR of 4.2% between 2018 and 2022. Total revenue reached about USD 75.0 billion in 2022. During the forecast period, North America’s demand for carbon steel is expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9%.
| Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) | 4.2% |
|---|---|
| Forecast CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.9% |
North America’s carbon steel business witnessed steady growth between 2018 and 2022. This was mainly due to the increased demand for carbon steel from cutting tools, vehicle frames, and the energy and power sectors.
The growth of carbon steel sales was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a significant decline in demand in 2020. The production activities for almost all sectors were halted, resulting in a reduction in manufacturing businesses and, subsequently, a decline in demand for carbon steel.
Over the forecast period, the North American carbon steel business is poised to exhibit healthy growth, totaling a valuation of USD 125.6 billion by 2033. It is expected to hold a prominent share of the global carbon steel sales value.
The region is expected to play a key role in driving global carbon steel sales during the forecast period. This is due to a combination of several factors. These include the increasing demand for electrical sheet products, gears, axles, railway tracks & train wheels, technological advancements in production processes with a shift toward sustainability, and the robust expansion of end-use industries.
The steel production sector, which includes carbon steel, in North America, is anticipated to expand steadily. This is attributable to the growing demand for carbon steel products owing to their multiple benefits. Key companies are expected to strengthen their carbon steel distribution in North America to boost their revenue.
Increasing Infrastructure Projects Boosting Carbon Steel Business Growth
North America is currently at the forefront of a significant infrastructure development wave, marked by substantial investments in multiple sectors. Notably, transportation, commercial, and residential construction, as well as civil engineering projects, are thriving. Carbon steel plays a pivotal role in these initiatives due to its remarkable durability and strength.
In particular, the construction of bridges and roads heavily depends on carbon steel. This is because it can withstand the immense stresses and loads these structures endure over time. This infrastructure boom can be attributed to the region's increasing population and rapid urbanization.
As cities expand and communities grow, the demand for improved infrastructure rises. Whether it is the construction of modern highways to accommodate higher traffic volumes, the development of urban centers to meet housing needs, or the reinforcement of aging bridges, carbon steel plays a foundational role in ensuring these projects are resilient and long-lasting.
The growing demand for carbon steel in infrastructure development reflects its enduring significance in the region's economic growth and urban evolution. Hence, increasing infrastructure projects are expected to elevate carbon steel demand in North America.
Rapid Expansion of Automotive Business to Fuel Carbon Steel Sales
Another key factor expected to drive demand for carbon steel in Canada, Mexico, and the United States is the growing need for lightweight and fuel-efficient vehicles. Similarly, the rise of the electric vehicles sector will foster the growth of the carbon steel business in North America.
North America holds a significant position in the global automotive business, annually producing millions of vehicles. Carbon steel plays a pivotal role in this sector, particularly in the manufacture of essential automotive components, such as frames and body panels.
The choice of carbon steel is underpinned by its exceptional strength, cost-effectiveness, and recyclability. These advantages would make it an ideal material for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of vehicles.
The region's automotive business continues to expand and innovate, driven by factors such as consumer demand for fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. As a result, the demand for high-quality carbon steel remains robust.
In the pursuit of lightweight vehicles to improve fuel efficiency, automakers rely on advanced high-strength carbon steels to reduce weight without compromising structural integrity. The ongoing development of electric vehicles, which also require lightweight yet strong materials, further solidifies the importance of carbon steel in North America's automotive manufacturing sector.
The Booming Energy Sector to Contribute to Carbon Steel Consumption
North America's energy sector is transforming with the increasing adoption of cleaner energy sources, including wind and solar power. This shift has increased the demand for carbon steel, particularly in wind turbines, solar panels, and energy storage facilities. Carbon steel's durability and strength would make it ideal for supporting large structures in the energy sector.
As North America intensifies its commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, the role of carbon steel becomes increasingly significant. Carbon steel is fundamental to the infrastructure of wind farms, where it supports the towering wind turbines and serves as the framework for solar panels.
Carbon steel is also vital in the construction of energy storage systems, such as battery enclosures, ensuring the safe containment of energy storage solutions. This surge in the energy sector aligns with North America's pursuit of a greener and more sustainable future, providing a substantial boost to the carbon steel business in the region.
Environmental Regulations
North America is renowned for having a handful of the most stringent environmental regulations globally. These regulations exert significant pressure on steel producers to adopt cleaner, more sustainable, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
To meet emissions standards and environmental commitments, steel manufacturers are investing in technologies such as electric arc furnaces and carbon capture systems. While this shift toward greener practices aligns with broader sustainability goals, it can be a double-edged sword.
The adoption of cleaner technologies, while commendable, often involves substantial upfront investments, influencing capital expenses. Moreover, the utilization of eco-friendly processes can increase production costs, primarily due to higher energy and operational expenses. As a result, certain manufacturers may encounter financial restraints, potentially hindering their ability to compete in price-sensitive markets.
Navigating the balance between environmental compliance and cost-effectiveness remains a challenge for steel companies in North America as they adapt to an evolving regulatory landscape. This is limiting business expansion to a certain extent.
Trade Barriers Hindering North America’s Carbon Steel Business
Import tariffs and trade policies have a significant impact on the North American carbon steel business. Trade tensions and the imposition of tariffs on steel imports can disrupt business stability. Uncertainty surrounding trade policies creates challenges for participants as it affects steel pricing and business fluctuations.
Tariffs can lead to higher import costs, affecting the competitiveness of foreign steel products. Domestic steel producers can benefit from these tariffs by having a more level playing field, but they must also navigate shifting business dynamics and supply chain complexities.
Changes in trade policies can also impact the cost-effectiveness of steel products. Increased tariffs can raise the cost of steel, affecting businesses reliant on affordable steel inputs, such as construction and manufacturing.
The table below highlights key countries’ carbon steel revenue in North America. The United States is expected to remain the leading consumer of carbon steel, with an expected valuation of USD 91.5 billion in 2033.
| Countries | Expected North America Carbon Steel Revenue (2033) |
|---|---|
| United States | USD 91.5 billion |
| Canada | USD 17.3 billion |
| Mexico | USD 16.8 billion |
The table below shows the estimated growth rates of the top countries in North America. Mexico is set to record a high CAGR of 6.5% through 2033.
| Countries | Projected Carbon Steel CAGR (2023 to 2033) |
|---|---|
| United States | 4.4% |
| Canada | 5.8% |
| Mexico | 6.5% |
The United States' carbon steel business size is projected to reach USD 91.5 billion by 2033. Over the assessment period, demand for carbon steel in the United States is projected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4%.
Several factors are anticipated to drive the growth of the carbon steel industry in the United States. These include the rising usage of carbon steel products in the thriving building and construction sector.
In the United States, the building and construction sector is experiencing a remarkable surge in demand due to several factors. These factors include the rapid growth of the population, resulting in the need for increased residential and commercial spaces and infrastructure.
The strong economy in the United States is also boosting construction activities, with businesses flourishing and investments being directed toward new office spaces, retail centers, and manufacturing facilities. This is uplifting the demand for materials such as carbon steel.
New infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing transportation networks, utilities, and public facilities are stoking the demand for construction services and materials. This includes carbon steel products.
Carbon steel, a versatile and durable material, is a prime choice for various construction activities and infrastructure projects. It is often used in the construction of bridges, highways, pipelines, and tunnels, which are integral components of infrastructure projects designed to enhance transportation networks.
Carbon steel, particularly low-carbon steel, is widely used in the manufacture of rebar. It is also utilized in large commercial and industrial buildings as structural steel frames for supporting the building's weight. Hence, rising building and construction activities are likely to fuel demand for low-carbon steel in the United States.
Sales of carbon steel in Mexico are projected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6.5% during the forecast period. It is likely to emerge as a highly lucrative market for carbon steel companies, with the total valuation in the country expected to reach USD 16.8 billion by 2033.
Several factors are expected to spur growth in Mexico over the forecast period. These include high population growth, a thriving manufacturing sector, favorable trade agreements, and government investments in infrastructure. These drivers are expected to continue to stimulate the demand for carbon steel in Mexico, making it an attractive market for global steel producers.
The country's steel industry will also benefit from its location, which puts it in a favorable position to serve the United States, one of the world's leading steel-consuming countries. Mexico has favorable trade agreements with several countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union (EU).
The trade agreements facilitate the export of Mexican steel products to these countries. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) removed tariffs on multiple steel products traded between Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This has helped to increase the competitiveness of Mexico’s carbon steel business in the United States.
The government's investments in infrastructure are also expected to drive demand for carbon steel during the assessment period. Mexico has a diversified manufacturing base, encompassing automotive, aerospace, and electronics sectors, which utilize substantial quantities of carbon steel in their production.
Mexico's automotive industry is particularly important, as it is the seventh-largest in the world in terms of production. The increasing production of vehicles, especially electric ones, will play a key role in driving sales of carbon steel in the country through 2033.
The section below shows that the low-carbon-content steel segment dominates, based on carbon content. It is predicted to thrive at a 4.9% CAGR between 2023 and 2033. By product type, the flat product category is expected to account for a significant value share by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.7%.
Based on end-use, the building & construction segment is anticipated to hold a dominant share through 2033. It is expected to exhibit a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% during the forecast period.
| Top Segment (Carbon Content) | Low-Carbon-Content Steel |
|---|---|
| Predicted CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.9% |
Based on carbon content, the report is segmented into low-carbon steel, medium-carbon steel, and high-carbon steel. Among these, end-users prefer low-carbon steel for product making. This is due to its several advantages, including versatility, weldability, and low cost.
Low-carbon steel, also known as mild steel, is widely used in various applications, including construction, the automotive industry, and consumer goods. This is because of its benefits, including machinability, durability, formability, and corrosion resistance.
Low-carbon steel is also a sustainable and easily recyclable material, making it an environmentally friendly option. It is relatively affordable to manufacture certain products out of low-carbon-content steel than other metals.
The increasing use of low-carbon steel for manufacturing various automotive components and construction materials is expected to drive the target segment. According to the latest carbon steel industry analysis, the low-carbon steel segment is projected to grow at a 4.9% CAGR, reaching USD 74.2 billion by 2033.
On the other hand, the high-carbon steel segment is expected to witness a higher CAGR of 5.3% during the assessment period. This can be attributed to the rising adoption of high-carbon steel in applications such as machine tools, automotive parts, and bearings due to its high strength, good machinability, and durability.
Demand for medium carbon steel across North America is set to rise at a 4.7% CAGR. It is expected to total USD 36.7 billion by 2033, driven by increasing usage across various sectors.
| Top Segment (Product Type) | Flat Product Types |
|---|---|
| Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.7% |
The flat product type segment is expected to maintain its dominance in North America throughout the forecast period. This is attributed to the increasing use of flat carbon steel products, such as pipes, tubes, and sheets, in the automotive, aerospace, and defense industries, which require a substantial amount of carbon steel-based items.
According to the latest report, the flat product types segment is projected to grow at a 4.7% CAGR over the assessment period. It is expected to generate a total revenue of USD 76.4 billion by 2033. However, demand in North America is expected to remain high in carbon steel products.
The robust growth of infrastructure projects, including bridges, railways, and highways, is expected to boost demand for long carbon steel products, such as bars, rods, and steel structures, in North America. This is because these projects require a substantial quantity of long steel products, which are typically composed of carbon steel.
The rebounding construction business is also expected to drive demand for long products, especially for the construction of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. This is due to the robust durability, high strength, and cost-effectiveness of carbon steel.
The transportation industry, which encompasses railroads, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing, relies heavily on steel products, primarily carbon steel. This is because of its strength, toughness, and affordability. These businesses are the leading consumers of flat carbon steel products, and hence, their expansion in North America will boost the target segment.
The North American carbon steel landscape is consolidated, with leading players accounting for approximately 55% to 60% of the market share. United States Steel Corporation, Steel Dynamics Inc., EVRAZ Plc, Novolipetsk Steel, Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., Nucor Corporation, ArcelorMittal Corporation, North Star BlueScope Steel, Commercial Metals Company, and TimkenSteel Corporation & Gerdau S.A. are the leading manufacturers of carbon steel listed in the report.
Key carbon steel companies are continually investing in research and development activities to produce new products and expand their production capacity, thereby meeting end-user demand. They are also showing an inclination toward adopting strategies such as acquisitions, partnerships, mergers, and facility expansions to strengthen their footprint.
Recent Developments in the North American Carbon Steel Business-
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Value (2023) | USD 78.1 billion |
| Projected Value (2033) | USD 125.6 billion |
| Anticipated Growth Rate (2023 to 2033) | 4.9% |
| Historical Data | 2018 to 2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2023 to 2033 |
| Quantitative Units | Value (USD billion) and Volume (000’ tons) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends, and Pricing Analysis |
| Key Segments Covered | Carbon Content, Product Type, End-use, Region |
| Country Covered | United States, Canada, Mexico |
| Sub-regions Covered | West (United States), Midwest (United States), Northeast (United States), South (United States), Ontario (United States), Quebec (Canada), Atlantic (Canada), Western (Canada), Rest of Canada, Northern (Mexico), Baijo (Mexico), Central (Mexico), Pacific Coast (Mexico), Other Mexico (Mexico) |
| Key Companies Profiled | United States Steel Corporation; Steel Dynamics Inc.; EVRAZ Plc; Novolipetsk Steel; Cleveland-Cliffs Inc; Nucor Corporation; ArcelorMittal Corporation; North Star BlueScope Steel; Commercial Metals Company; TimkenSteel Corporation; Gerdau S.A. |
Total revenue in North America is set to reach USD 78.1 billion in 2023.
North America's carbon steel demand is anticipated to rise at a 4.9% CAGR.
Carbon steel sales in North America will likely total USD 125.6 billion by 2033.
Building and construction are expected to lead during the forecast period.
The United States carbon steel revenue is set to total USD 91.5 billion in 2033.
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North America Carbon Steel Industry
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