According to the China Iron and Steel Association (CISA), citing customs statistics, in January-March 2026, China reduced its steel exports by 9.9% year-on-year to 24.71 million tons. At the same time, steel imports into the country decreased by 14.1% y/y to 1.34 million tons, while iron ore imports increased by 10.5% y/y to 314.8 million tons. This combination of indicators suggests a shift in the balance of one of the world's key markets and sets new benchmarks for participants in the global metal supply chain.
Quarterly Steel and Ore Trade Performance in China
In March 2026, Chinese steel exports totaled 9.13 million tons, a 16.6% increase compared to the previous month but a 12.6% decrease year-on-year. The average price of these exports was $684.7 per ton, which is 6.1% lower month-over-month. This indicates persistent price pressure despite the monthly recovery in physical supply volumes.
Steel imports to China in March reached 512,000 tons, up 38.8% from February. The average import price was $1,710.3 per ton, a 1.7% m/m decline. Meanwhile, iron ore imports in March stood at 104.7 million tons, up 7.3% from the previous month, with an average price of $99.6 per ton. The growth in raw material purchases may indicate expectations for higher steel capacity utilization in the coming months.
It is also significant for the market that in 2025, China drove steel exports to a record 119.02 million tons, compensating for weaker domestic demand. Therefore, the current quarterly decline should not be viewed in isolation but within the context of a high comparison base and new regulatory conditions. An additional factor is the introduction of export licenses in 2026 for a wide range of steel products — from pig iron and semi-finished products to flat and long rolled products, pipes, and rails.
Market Impact and Solutions for winox.ua Clients
For the global steel market, the reduction in Chinese exports means a potential easing of pressure on certain external markets but does not eliminate the risks of price volatility. If iron ore imports to China continue to grow, it could support production activity and influence future supply dynamics. For industrial consumers and processors, it is vital to promptly track not only trade volumes but also changes in average export prices and trade restrictions.
Under these conditions, winox.ua, as a supplier of rolled metal, stainless steel, and non-ferrous metals, helps businesses mitigate procurement risks. The company focuses on reliable supply channels, assortment stability, and predictable commercial terms for industrial clients. This is especially important during periods when global steel flows shift rapidly due to customs statistics, export licensing, and fluctuations in raw material prices.
For manufacturing enterprises, service metal centers, and the construction sector, the current data from China serves as a signal for more careful inventory and contract planning. A drop in exports from the world's largest supplier can change the competitive landscape in Asia, Europe, and adjacent markets. Therefore, timely analytics and partnership with a supplier like winox.ua, who understands market dynamics, become practical tools for maintaining operational stability.