New data from the World Steel Association for 2025 reveals India has achieved a remarkable milestone in its industrial growth, with its crude steel production now surpassing the combined output of the United States and Japan. This significant achievement underscores India's accelerating economic transformation and its rising prominence in global manufacturing.
India's Production Overtakes Key Global Players
According to the World Steel Association's 2025 figures, India produced a staggering 164.9 million tonnes of crude steel. In comparison, the United States recorded 81.9 million tonnes, while Japan produced 80.7 million tonnes. Together, the US and Japan's combined output stood at 162.6 million tonnes, placing India ahead by a margin of 2.3 million tonnes.
This surge solidifies India's position as the world's second-largest steel producer, a rank it has held after overtaking Japan in 2018. China remains the global leader, producing 960.8 million tonnes in the same period. India's output also saw a substantial increase of 10.4% from its 2024 production of 149.4 million tonnes.
Anand Mahindra Hails "Simply Incredible" Milestone
Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra expressed his astonishment and pride at India's unprecedented steel production figures. Taking to social media, Mahindra described the milestone as "simply incredible."
"One advantage of being of my vintage is having witnessed the dramatic transformation of our economy over the decades," Mahindra wrote. "In 2023, I shared my sense of wonder at seeing India’s steel production surge ahead of Japan’s. For me, that alone was an almost unbelievable milestone. And now, India is producing more steel than the US and Japan COMBINED! I need a moment to catch my breath… Simply incredible!"
Mahindra also drew a personal connection to this industrial success, recalling his grandfather, J.C. Mahindra, who served as India's first Iron & Steel Controller during the Second World War. He mused that his grandfather "must be celebrating" this modern achievement.
Industry Leaders Credited for Growth
The business magnate extended his gratitude to the key players driving this growth, specifically naming major steelmakers such as Tata Steel, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), and JSW, alongside the broader industry. "My gratitude to Tata Steel, SAIL, JSW, & all the other companies and people who have driven this extraordinary transformation of one of our most fundamental industries. What a journey. And what a foundation for the future!" he stated.
This milestone reflects not only increased domestic demand but also strategic investments and policies aimed at boosting India's manufacturing capabilities, positioning the nation as a formidable force in the global steel market.