U.S. Fabricated Beam Final Imports: Fabricated beam final imports to the U.S. reached 43,969 tons in January 2021, up 11% month over month (m/m). This increase follows a relatively flat pattern over Q4 2020.

Figure 1 breaks down total fabricated beam imports from January 2019 – January 2021. When looking at the current month, it shows imports have reached their highest level since August 2020.

Figure 2 also charts the largest exporting countries in rank order through January 2021. Canada was the largest exporter of fabricated beams with 13,354 tons this month. Mexico was the second-largest exporter with 12,145 tons. Turkey was the third-largest exporter of fabricated beams to the US with 4,938 tons. Together these three exporters accounted for 69% of total fabricated beam imports.

Figure 3 also charts the largest imports by district of entry to the US in rank order through January. The Laredo, TX port was the largest receiver of fabricated beams this month, receiving 6,175 tons. Houston-Galveston, TX was the second-largest district of entry, coming in at 6,020 tons. El Paso, TX was the third-highest receiver with 5,534 tons. Together these three districts of entry accounted for 40% of the total imports.

At Gerdau we closely follow trade in long products 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.