The global steel market is moving towards regionalisation — Kallanish Global Flat Steel 2026

Cross-border trade has become more difficult, but it will continue to shape the functioning of the global steel market

The Kallanish Global Flat Steel 2026 conference will take place in Istanbul on 23 September. The event comes at a pivotal moment for the industry.

Record levels of Chinese flat steel exports have disrupted global pricing and trade flows, leading to an increase in trade defence measures worldwide. Europe remains a key destination for exports of these products, despite low demand and challenges posed by the CBAM and new trade defence measures. However, this presents new opportunities for low-emission producers, including Turkish EAF steelmakers.

The expansion of flat steel production in electric arc furnaces in Europe continues to face a number of challenges; India is seeking alternative export markets for these products; and the US continues to chart its own course, with strong domestic prices and limited import competitiveness.

At the same time, weak automotive production, subdued manufacturing activity and persistent pressure on prices continue to weigh on global demand for steel, whilst tensions in the Middle East are adding further uncertainty to the global economic outlook.

As Adam Smith, global editor of Kallanish Commodities, noted, the global steel market, like the global economy, is moving away from the traditional globalised model towards a fragmented, regionalised trading environment. This is driven by geopolitical events and concerns regarding national security and local industrial capacity

According to him, the growth in global excess capacity has led to a record number of trade disputes over steel trade worldwide, whilst energy costs and logistical disruptions caused by the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz are complicating operations. Meanwhile, emerging carbon credit markets are driving investment in low-emission steel production.

“Cross-border trade may have become more complex than before, but it will continue to play a leading role in sustaining the functioning of the global steel market,” Smith noted.

The Global Flat Steel Conference has already firmly established itself as one of the leading international industry events. It will provide delegates with valuable market insights through expert presentations, panel discussions and extensive networking opportunities, covering trade policy, decarbonisation, supply chain development and the outlook for future demand.

The event brings together leaders from across the global flat steel supply chain to discuss the most pressing market challenges, emerging opportunities and factors shaping international trade.

The conference has already received strong support from both local and international companies. Confirmed delegates include representatives from Tata Steel, Stemcor, Borçelik, Çolakoglu Metalurji, Yıldiz Demir Çelik, Midrex Technologies, Primex and Samsung C&T, amongst others, with delegates from Europe, Turkey, Asia and other regions continuing to register for the event.

GMK Center is the media partner for Kallanish Global Flat Steel 2026.

Registration is available via the link.