According to the report, German steel sales volume and stock decreased by 4.2% and 1.5% year on year in January 2026, respectively. 

Specifically, the sales volume of steel long products and other products declined by 2.5% and 1% year on year, respectively. The stock of long products decreased from 622,500 tons in December 2025 to 617,470 tons in January 2026, while the stock of other products increased by 26% year on year to 36,600 tons.

Market participants stated that high steel product inventories and uncertain downstream demand prospects led to a slowdown in sales activity in January. However, traditional importers are more motivated to purchase domestic products with the arrival of warmer weather, and the market expects sales activity to rebound.