U.S. Fabricated Beam Final Imports: Final fabricated beam imports to the U.S. came in at 49,273 tons in December 2022, decreasing 17% month over month (m/m).

Figure 1 breaks down total fabricated beam imports from January 2019 – December 2022. When looking at the current year, we see that fabricated beam imports reached their peak in March with 70,825 tons.

Figure 2 charts the largest exporting countries in rank order through December. Mexico was the largest exporter of fabricated beams with 19,117 tons this month (39%). Canada was the second-largest exporter with 12,131 tons. China was the third-largest exporter of fabricated beams to the U.S. with 4,117 tons. Together these three exporters accounted for 72% of total fabricated beam imports.

Figure 3 also charts the largest imports by district of entry to the U.S. in rank order. The Laredo, TX port was the largest receiver of fabricated beams this month, receiving 13,580 tons. El Paso, TX was second, coming in at 4,834 tons. St. Albans, VT was the third-highest receiver with 3,996 tons. Together, these three districts of entry accounted for 45% of total imports.

At Gerdau, we closely follow trade in long product steel since it has a profound impact on domestic market share and material pricing. We want you, our valued customers, to have access to current information that can help you better plan and operate your businesses.