Starting January 1, 2026, the Chinese mainland will implement an export licensing system for selected steel products, a move announced in a joint statement by the Chinese mainland27s Ministry of Commerce and its General Administration of Customs.
This measure adds specific steel categories to the revised 2025 export license catalog. Foreign trade operators will need to submit their export contracts and product quality inspection certificates issued by manufacturers when applying for licenses.
As a critical industrial raw material, steel drives both domestic growth and global trade. From January to October 2025, the Chinese mainland27s steel exports, including finished and primary products, reached $74.74 billion. This rise in volume, even as global prices dipped, highlights the need for stronger oversight across complex trade chains.
Shifts in supply and demand since 2022 have led to fluctuating exports and challenges in tracking product flows. The China Iron and Steel Industry Association says the new licensing system will standardize exports, boost high-quality development, and help maintain a healthy balance in the global steel market.
Analysts believe this step underscores the Chinese mainland27s commitment as a responsible major power, aiming to stabilize supply, ensure quality, and support sustainable growth in the industry.
Reference(s):
China to implement export licensing for selected steel products
cgtn.com
