China increased its steel exports by 6.6% year-on-year during the period from January to October 2025.

From January to October 2025, Chinese steelmakers increased their steel exports by 6.6% compared to the same period in 2024, reaching 97.74 million tons. The China Iron and Steel Association (CISA) reported this information, citing data from the Customs Administration.

In October alone, Chinese steel producers exported 9.78 million tons of steel, a 6.5% decrease from the previous month. The average export price was $684.4 per ton, showing a 0.8% increase month-on-month.

Steel imports into China during the January–October period totaled 5.04 million tons, down 11.9% year-on-year. In October, imports amounted to 503,000 tons, an 8.2% decline from the previous month. The average import price stood at $1,590 per ton, 1.9% lower than in the prior month.

China’s iron ore imports in the first ten months of the year reached 1.03 billion tons, up 0.7% compared to the same period in 2024. In October, imports dropped 4.3% from the previous month to 111.31 million tons. The average iron ore price was $100.6 per ton, reflecting a 3.7% month-on-month increase.

Throughout October, iron ore prices fluctuated within a narrow range. On the Dalian Commodity Exchange, January futures rose 2% between September 30 and October 31 to $112.31 per ton, while on the Singapore Exchange, December contracts gained 0.9%, closing the month at $106.2 per ton.

In 2024, China’s steel production fell by 1.7% compared to 2023, totaling 1.005 billion tons. However, exports hit a record 110.72 million tons — a 22.7% increase from 2023. Despite weak domestic demand, this upward trend in exports continues. Steel imports for the same year amounted to 6.8 million tons, 10.5% lower than the previous year.