According to new data, EU sponge iron imports in the first two months of 2025 fell by 30.9% compared to the same period last year to 408,000 tons. despite a 44.9% drop in exports, Russia, remained the largest supplier of the material to Europe. ‎

‎This significant drop in imports shows a decline in sponge iron consumption in European industries, that could be caused by industrial stagnation, trade restrictions, or increased environmental pressures on the steel industry. Also, the decline in Russian exports may have been due to the continuation of sanctions or the loss of the country’s competitive advantages. ‎

‎‎‎Meanwhile, the continuation of this trend can create new opportunities for Iranian Steel. Due to Europe’s growing need to diversify the supply of primary steel resources and reduce dependence on Russia, Iranian producers can gain a greater share of the European sponge iron market by increasing quality and taking advantage of regional advantages.‎