U.S. Imports of Rolling Mills and Other Metalworking Machinery Grew Modestly with Acceleration in 2014-2015

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The U.S. ranks first in global imports of rolling mills and other metalworking machinery, accounting for an 11% share (based on USD). It was followed by China (10%), Germany (7%), and Korea (5%). In 2015, U.S. rolling mill and other metalworking machinery imports totaled 2,741 million USD, which was 105 million USD (4%) more than the year before.

From 2007 to 2015, U.S. imports of rolling mills and other metalworking machinery showed mixed dynamics. Imports hiked in 2008, only to fall dramatically in 2009. Following a drop in 2009, imports stood stable the year after and recovered rapidly in 2011. Since 2012, imports began a modest upward trend, with acceleration in 2014-2015.

In 2011, U.S. rolling mill and other metalworking machinery imports overcame the pre-recession level of 2007, and continued to grow further.

The U.S. continues to be one of the biggest markets for global exporters.

Germany, Japan, China, Canada, and Mexico were the main suppliers of rolling mills and other metalworking machinery into the U.S., with a combined share of 59% of total U.S. imports in 2015. China (+11.4% per year) and Mexico (+9.8% per year) were the fastest growing suppliers from 2007 to 2015. China significantly strengthened its position in the U.S. import structure, from 6% in 2007 to 11% in 2015. Mexico increased its share as well, from 6% to 10%. By contrast, Germany (-2 percentage points) and Japan (-3 percentage points) saw their shares reduced to 17% and 12%, respectively.

Over most of the period from 2007 to 2015, the U.S. was a net importer of rolling mills and other metalworking machinery. However, net imports recorded significant fluctuations since 2007, when an original trade surplus was followed by a deficit over the next six years. 2014 was marked by another short-term surplus, which sharply shifted to a trade deficit of 269 million USD in 2015.

Source: U.S. Rolling Mill And Other Metalworking Machinery Market. Analysis And Forecast to 2020