Brazil’s heavy plate exports surged by 117.3% month-on-month in April 2026 to 11,300 metric tons (mt) compared to 5,200 mt in March, according to SECEX data. Despite the strong monthly growth, overall export volumes remain well below historical averages due to the continued absence of the United States as an export destination, with all April shipments bound for South American countries. Prominent exporters included Usiminas (10,700 mt at $559/mt FOB), CSN (300 mt at $842/mt FOB), and Gerdau (200 mt at $595/mt FOB). Concurrently, Brazil's heavy plate imports grew 47% month-on-month to 2,200 mt, led by China (1,500 mt at $608/mt), Italy (500 mt), and Portugal (300 mt).

Brazil's Secretariat of Foreign Trade (SECEX) issued Circular No. 33, confirming preliminary dumping and injury findings regarding hot-rolled stainless steel imports from China, Indonesia, and India. The calculated dumping margins are 50.1% for China, 25.3% for Indonesia, and 17.9% for India. However, authorities have opted not to impose provisional duties at this stage, citing the complexity of the multi-origin investigation and the need for further review. The final determination, which affects HRC and sheets with thicknesses of 2mm to 50.8mm (including NCM 7219 and 7220 headings), is scheduled for release on November 25, 2026.