Ukraine's 2025 Metal Exports: Pig Iron Surges 53% as Ore Shipments Decline

Ukrainian Mining and Metals Exports Show Overall Growth in 2025

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukraine's mining and metals sector recorded increased exports across most product categories in 2025. Notably, pig iron shipments surged by 53.5%, reaching a total volume of 1.98 million tons. The United States was the primary buyer, importing over 1.3 million tons of this product. Exports of ferrous scrap also saw a significant rise, increasing by 53% to 449 thousand tons, with Poland serving as the main destination for this material. This performance highlights the sector's resilience and adaptability in a challenging global market.

Export Trends for Metal Products

Furthermore, exports of long rolled products grew by 45.4%, reaching 892 thousand tons, with key markets in Romania and Poland. Flat rolled product exports also showed positive momentum, rising by 11.2% to 1.82 million tons.

In contrast, Ukraine's iron ore exports contracted by 8%, totaling 30.99 million tons. While shipments to China increased, overall demand for iron ore in Europe declined, impacting the export total. A reduction was also recorded for semi-finished products, with exports falling 26.4% to 1.39 million tons, while pipe exports decreased by 8.8% to 465 thousand tons.

The decline in exports for specific segments was attributed to:

• Reduced demand in Europe;
• Decreased purchasing from the United States and Germany.

This data is sourced from the analytical center GMK Center.

Consequently, Ukraine's mining and metals complex demonstrated mixed export performance in 2025, with pronounced growth in segments like pig iron and scrap, while others, including iron ore and semi-finished goods, experienced declines. This reflects shifting international demand for metallurgical products, likely connected to broader economic factors and evolving global supply chains.