Steel buyers who are looking for a clearer understanding of future price dynamics around the world have about a month to wait: MEPs will publish their review of steel prices for 2026 with a five-year forecast.
The annual report contains five-year forecasts of prices for flat and long products in key markets in Asia, Europe and the USA. Prepared by the MEPS analytical group, it also includes an overview of trends affecting global steel prices, as well as an analysis of raw material costs over a five-year horizon. Forecasts apply until 2031.
Orders placed before the October 20 report publication date will be available with a 10% discount.
The head of the Department of price analysis and forecasting of MEPs Kaye Ayoub stated:
Against the backdrop of the war in the Middle East, the expansion of trade barriers around the world and increased attention to carbon dioxide emissions, the work of a steel price forecaster has never been so difficult. However, independent research and the pricing methodology used by MEPs make it possible to provide accurate and accessible information.
The main goal of our forecast is to provide market participants with the fullest possible understanding of price trends so that they can confidently plan for the future.
Buyers who use the MEPS steel price forecast for 2026 will receive:
- Five-year price forecasts for a wide range of flat and long products, including hot-rolled, cold-rolled and hot-dip galvanized coils, hot-rolled sheets, wire rods, beams, rebars and other types of products;
- Five-year estimates of the cost of raw materials for steel production, including iron ore, coking coal and ferrous scrap;
- a brief overview of future price trends and factors affecting steel supply and demand;
- the latest data on GDP changes in key markets;
- updated figures for 2026-2027, taking into account the revised five-year price forecast presented in February and June, as well as fresh comments from MEPS on the regional 12-month forecast.
In addition to forecasts for the future, the review also reflects the trading situation that has developed by 2026, against which many steel buyers around the world continue to work in conditions of uncertainty.
The armed conflict in the Middle East has led to restrictions on international trade. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has also caused rising prices for energy, fuel and raw materials, which has increased the cost of steel purchases and increased inflationary pressures in the world.
U.
S. President Donald Trump's tariffs on steel continue to change trade flows to the United States and support domestic prices. At the same time, US relations with Canada and Mexico remain tense amid negotiations on an updated agreement between
