中金 | 美国钢铁行业：关税政策下的供需重构

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. steel industry is currently experiencing a tight supply situation driven by tariff policies, leading to a short-term maintenance of high steel prices and a potential long-term upward shift in price levels [1][3]. Supply - The U.S. is the only major market globally with a tight supply and high reliance on imports, with an estimated net import volume accounting for about 20% of consumption in 2024, making it the largest net importer [3][21]. - The U.S. steel supply is characterized by a high proportion of electric arc furnace (EAF) steel, with around 70% of crude steel production coming from EAFs, significantly higher than the global average of 30% [3][5]. - Approximately 7 million tons of crude steel capacity is expected to be released in the medium term, primarily from EAFs, which may partially replace imports and maintain a healthy and flexible supply [3][19]. Demand - The automotive sector represents a significant portion of U.S. steel demand, with an estimated consumption of 89 million tons in 2024, where construction, automotive, and machinery account for approximately 44%, 28%, and 9% respectively [4][33]. - Policy-driven improvements in demand are anticipated, particularly in non-residential construction and automotive sectors, due to tariffs on imported vehicles and increased domestic production [4][39]. Price - U.S. hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices have increased by 35% since the beginning of 2025, reaching $900 per ton, with expectations of maintaining high prices in the short term due to tariff impacts [1][42]. - The price of U.S. steel is influenced by trade protection policies, with a potential for upward movement in the long term as EAF production increases and the supply of quality scrap steel becomes a critical resource [47][48]. Industry Dynamics - The U.S. steel industry has undergone significant consolidation, with the top four companies controlling over 80% of the market share, a trend that has intensified since 2000 [5][15]. - The recent acquisition of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel is expected to have profound implications for all stakeholders involved, including potential improvements in competitiveness and market share for U.S. Steel [48][49].