China’s Steel Exports Surge to Record High, Defying Global Trade Barriers

China has posted a record-breaking rise in steel exports in the second quarter of 2025, amidst rising protectionism from major economies. China exported 30.7 million tons of finished steel in the period between April and June, up 11% from last year and the largest ever quarterly volume. The total exports rose 9% over the half-year, reflecting Chinese steel producers’ resilience amidst protectionism across the world.

Certain countries such as the United States, Vietnam, India, and the European Union have imposed additional tariffs and anti-dumping charges in an attempt to limit China’s steel exports. Chinese exporters have reacted by switching to untariffed product lines and turning to alternative markets. Increased shipments to Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and other nations have served to offset losses in core markets such as Vietnam, where bans have already impacted certain product lines such as hot-rolled coil.

Semi-finished steel exports have increased by over 300% during the first half of the year, also propelling total volumes. Even while some Chinese industry associations have suggested limiting billet shipments, strong profit margins continue to motivate producers to maintain high production levels.

Kallanish Commodities analysts see 2025 total exports of 125 million tons, an increase of 7% from 2024. Macquarie sees only a small decline, with the actual slowdown being deferred to 2026.

The export drive in steel is also supporting raw material imports. Iron ore imports in June nearly approached 106 million tons, and volumes of crude oil, copper, and natural gas also grew. Coal imports dropped drastically due to oversupply.

With global trade tensions, China’s steel industry is extremely robust, with increasing exports to offset poor demand at home.

Reference:

Gemmell, K. (2025, July 14). China’s steel exports defy protectionist wave to hit record. Bloomberg. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-14/china-s-steel-exports-defy-protectionist-wave-to-hit-new-high.