China will impose export licensing on nearly all steel products from January 1, reported Caixin. The measure seeks to control rising overseas shipments that have triggered trade disputes and international scrutiny.

The Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs said the new regime will apply to most steel-related exports, including crude iron, billets, coils, plates, pipes and scrap. Only a limited number of finished goods such as fasteners and household appliances will be exempt.

China shipped 97.7 million tons of steel in the first 10 months of 2025, up 6.6 per cent from a year earlier. However, average export prices dropped 8.7 per cent to $695.4 per ton, reflecting a flood of cheaper cargoes.

Officials said the licensing system is intended to curb illicit exports that avoid domestic taxes and to ease tensions with trade partners. Several countries have stepped up antidumping actions against Chinese steel, citing unfair competition.