China’s Steel Exports Show Mixed Trends in September 2025
China’s steel exports presented mixed results in September 2025.
Steel plate exports declined, while bar and wire rod shipments rose sharply.
This contrast reflects shifting global demand across different steel product categories.
Trade dynamics remain influenced by external market factors such as pricing, logistics, and trade policy adjustments.
Exporters are adapting strategies to manage changing conditions and maintain competitiveness.
Steel Plate Exports Decline Amid Weak Overseas Demand
According to the General Administration of Customs, China exported 6.4 million tons of steel plates in September 2025, marking a 6.1% year-on-year decline.
From January to September, total plate exports reached 54.48 million tons, a 0.8% decrease from the previous year.
This decline highlights ongoing weakness in overseas industrial demand and slower project execution.
Analysts note that a global manufacturing slowdown has reduced steel plate consumption, especially in heavy machinery and shipbuilding sectors.
Additionally, trade restrictions and anti-dumping measures have limited plate exports to certain markets.
Steel Bar and Profile Exports Maintain Strong Growth
In contrast, steel bar exports surged during the same period.
Shipments reached 1.68 million tons in September, up 25% year on year.
The rise was driven by strong construction activity in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Angle bar and profile exports also expanded significantly, hitting 730,000 tons, a 26.7% increase.
From January to September, total exports reached 5.76 million tons, up 37.5% from a year earlier.
This growth reflects steady demand for long steel products used in infrastructure and urban development projects.
Wire Rod Exports Record the Fastest Increase
Steel wire rod exports achieved the fastest growth rate among all major product categories.
In September, shipments totaled 270,000 tons, up 32.6% compared with last year.
Cumulative exports reached 2.22 million tons during the first nine months of 2025.
Rising orders from regional manufacturers and favorable pricing supported this performance.
Wire rods are increasingly used in automotive and machinery applications, helping offset the slowdown in plate exports.
Market Drivers and Export Strategy Adjustments
Global steel demand patterns are shifting.
Construction-led growth continues to support long product exports, while flat steel faces cyclical headwinds.
China retains a competitive pricing advantage in several markets, helping sustain export volumes.
However, exporters must navigate rising trade protection measures that target specific steel categories.
Industry participants expect companies to focus on product diversification, customized grades, and flexible logistics solutions to maintain steady overseas orders.
Outlook: Resilient but Uneven Growth Ahead
China’s steel plate export slowdown is balanced by strong momentum in bar and wire rod shipments.
Overall, the steel export market shows resilience despite weaker global demand.
Analysts foresee continued adjustments in product mix through the end of 2025.
Producers are likely to emphasize value-added products and explore emerging markets to sustain export performance.
FAQS
Q1: Why did China’s steel plate exports decline in September 2025?
The decline was due to weaker global manufacturing demand, trade restrictions, and slower industrial project activity.
Q2: Which steel products showed export growth?
Steel bars, angle bars, profiles, and wire rods all posted double-digit growth in September 2025.
Q3: What are the main markets driving bar and wire rod demand?
Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa remain key growth regions due to infrastructure expansion.
Q4: How are exporters responding to global trade challenges?
Companies are diversifying export destinations, adjusting pricing, and offering customized steel grades to meet varied market needs.
Q5: What is the export outlook for late 2025?
Exports are expected to remain steady, supported by infrastructure demand and flexible supply strategies despite global headwinds.
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