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Mysteel: Breaking Through Trade Barriers – Strategies for China’s Steel Exports

Mysteel: Breaking Through Trade Barriers – Strategies for China’s Steel Exports

As global economic recovery falters and geopolitical tensions escalate, the steel industry—the backbone of national economies—has become a focal point of international trade disputes. From tariff fraud cases in Germany to U.S. steel-aluminum tariffs and anti-dumping measures targeting Chinese exports, the sector faces unprecedented challenges. With China producing 53.86% of global steel output in 2023 (World Steel Association), how can Chinese steelmakers navigate rising trade barriers and sustain export growth?


Tariff Barriers Intensify: Emerging Markets Offer New Avenues

  • Export Trends: In 2024, 32.98% of China’s steel exports flowed to Vietnam, South Korea, UAE, Thailand, and the Philippines. U.S.-bound shipments fell to 89,170 tons (0.8% of total exports), down from 2.42 million tons in 2015.

  • Policy Shocks:

    • U.S.: 25% tariff on all steel imports (March 2025).

    • EU: 15% quota cut + 25% surcharge on excess volumes (April 2025).

    • India/Others: 12% safeguard duty; anti-dumping measures by Vietnam and South Korea.

  • Strategy: Shift focus to Belt and Road markets (Middle East, Africa) with rising demand and lower trade friction.


Structural Flaws Exposed: Low Prices vs. High-End Gaps

  • 2024 Data:

    • Exports: 111 million tons (highest since 2015).

    • Export Price: $755.18/ton (lowest since 2017).

  • Contradictions:

    • Overcapacity: Low-end products dominate exports, driven by weak domestic demand.

    • Tech Deficits: High-end markets remain reliant on imports (e.g., advanced alloys, specialty steels).


Trade Imbalance Widens: Urgent Structural Reforms Needed

  • Trade Surplus: 10.42 million tons in 2024 (decade high), but sustainability risks loom.

  • Import Weakness: Stagnant domestic demand and reliance on foreign high-tech products highlight innovation gaps.


Strategies for Resilience

  1. Market Diversification: Prioritize emerging markets (Middle East, Africa) under BRI to offset Western restrictions.

  2. Tech Upgrading: Invest in R&D to boost high-value product output (e.g., automotive-grade steel, green alloys).

  3. Green Transition: Adopt low-carbon technologies and consolidate outdated capacity to align with global sustainability standards.



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