China’s steel industry showed strong momentum in overseas markets during the first half of 2025, exporting 58.15 million tons—up 9.2% from the same period in 2024, according to the China Iron and Steel Association citing customs data. Meanwhile, domestic steel imports declined sharply by 16.4% year-on-year, totaling 3.023 million tons, reflecting a shift in trade dynamics.
Despite the overall rise, June saw a monthly dip in steel exports, down 8.5% to 9.68 million tons. The average export price also decreased, settling at $687.1 per ton, $10.8 less than in May. Steel imports in June were 470,000 tons, marking a 2.3% drop from the previous month, with the import price dipping 2.2% to $1,710 per ton.
China’s iron ore intake via sea routes fell by 3% year-on-year in the first half, landing at 592.2 million tons. However, June saw an uptick in raw material imports—rising 8% month-on-month to 105.95 million tons—though the average price fell slightly to $92.9 per ton.
The figures highlight China’s strengthening steel export posture amid evolving global demand and pricing pressures across raw materials and finished products.
