According to GMK Center estimates based on State Customs Service data, Ukrainian ferroalloy enterprises reduced exports to 3.93 thousand tons in January-April 2026, compared to 38.96 thousand tons the previous year. This result effectively returns the industry to the crisis levels seen in early 2024, when producers were idle due to power supply issues. The sharp decline in shipments demonstrates not only the local difficulties of individual plants but also systemic pressure on the entire steel production chain.
Key Drivers Behind the Export Collapse
The bulk of export volume over the four-month period occurred in April, when 2.75 thousand tons of products were shipped abroad, while in February, the figure dropped to a record low of 0.07 thousand tons. Primary destinations included Poland, Romania, and the Netherlands. Export revenue for January-April amounted to $4.89 million, significantly lower than the $42.66 million recorded during the same period in 2025. This indicates a near-total loss of stable foreign markets for Ukrainian ferroalloy producers.
As noted by the Executive Director of UkrFA, after operating at minimum capacity in 2025, plants were forced to halt production starting January 19 due to electricity shortages and soaring energy prices. The energy component accounts for over 50% of the cost of ferroalloy products; therefore, any price spikes critically damage competitiveness. Additionally, the industry is pressured by logistical constraints, destroyed transport links between Marhanets and Nikopol, labor shortages, and the fact that some enterprises operate in front-line zones. Under such conditions, producers are virtually unable to maintain consistent export shipments.
Impact on the Steel Market and winox.ua Solutions
The situation in the ferroalloy industry is vital for the entire metallurgical market, as ferroalloys remain a core component in the production of steel and specialized alloys. When exports and production nearly stop, it signals rising production costs, risks of material shortages, and increased price pressure on related market segments. For industrial consumers, this necessitates more careful procurement planning, accounting for energy and logistical risks throughout the supply chain.
In these challenging environments, the role of reliable metal suppliers capable of ensuring predictable deliveries for manufacturing companies becomes paramount. winox.ua works with industrial clients in the stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, and rolled metal segments, helping to mitigate the risks of raw material and semi-finished product supply disruptions. Amid instability in related market sectors, the company focuses on stable supplies, transparent cooperation terms, and selecting products tailored to specific production tasks. For businesses, this serves as a practical tool to reduce operational uncertainty.
Year-on-Year Comparison and Outlook
The contrast with 2025 is stark: back then, Ukrainian ferroalloy enterprises exported 93.84 thousand tons of products, with revenue reaching $105.44 million. The largest consumers were Poland, Algeria, Turkey, and Italy, confirming strong external demand even under difficult operating conditions. The current decline indicates that internal production constraints, rather than market demand, are the primary limiting factor. If energy and logistics issues are not addressed, the ferroalloy segment will continue to be one of the most vulnerable elements of the Ukrainian metallurgy industry.