Iran has banned exports of steel plates and sheets until May 30, state media reported, as the country moves to manage shortages in its domestic market.
Authorities introduced the restriction as the steel sector faces major disruption following damage to key facilities during recent conflict.
Attacks during the war between Israel and the United States against Tehran damaged critical infrastructure in Iran’s steel industry.
According to the daily Etemaad, the damage has taken around 10 million tonnes of annual steel production capacity offline, about 25% to 30% of total output.
The Mobarakeh Steel Company and the Khouzestan Steel Company both suffered damage during the strikes, leading to production stoppages.
This disruption has spread across multiple sectors, including construction, automotive manufacturing and infrastructure, according to Etemad.
Market outlook and recovery
A member of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce said the flat steel market could stabilise within two months, as imports help fill supply gaps and curb speculative demand, according to Tabnak.
However, recovery remains uncertain. A senior official at Khouzestan Steel Company said in April that repairs and full restart of operations could take 6–12 months.
Wider economic impact
Steel ranks among Iran’s key export earners alongside oil. The production and export disruption could weaken trade performance, reduce foreign currency inflows and erode Iran’s share in global steel markets.
Analysts also warn of job losses and rising inflation as broader economic pressure builds.
Also read: Oil prices rise as US–Iran talks stall
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