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Asia Steel Market Report: Positive Sentiment Amid Regulatory Changes and Increased Activity

In Asia, particularly within China, the steel market demonstrates a positive outlook influenced by significant regulatory changes and production increases. Notably, the articles titled China issues new regulations for exports of steel products and China’s finished steel exports up 7.5% in Nov, up 6.7% in Jan-Nov 2025 highlight a record surge in steel exports alongside new export regulations that are anticipated to enhance domestic supply security.

Measured Activity Overview

Bar chart and satellite map of steel production activity in Asia

Activity levels across Asian steel plants exhibit fluctuations. Significant peaks were observed at Tianjin New Tiangang United Special Steel Co., Ltd., consistently around 84%, reflecting strong production and export capabilities—likely influenced by the export demands noted in “China’s finished steel exports up 7.5% in Nov, up 6.7% in Jan-Nov 2025”. Meanwhile, Heyuan Derun Steel Co., Ltd. showed consistent activity levels around 36% to 40%, suggesting stable production supported by regional demand. This stability aligns with upcoming export regulations aimed at balancing domestic needs against international pressure.

In contrast, the Nippon Setouchi Works (Hirohata Area) faced a slight drop to 33%, indicating potential adjustments in production influenced by varying steel demand amid rising export regulations in China.

Evaluated Market Implications

The newly implemented export quotas specified in “China issues new regulations for exports of steel products” will likely lead to short-term supply disruptions, particularly affecting those reliant on Chinese imports. Steel buyers should anticipate potential increases in costs and shipment timelines as companies adapt to new regulatory requirements.

Given the robust activity at Tianjin New Tiangang United Special Steel Co., Ltd., procurement actions should focus on sourcing high-quality steel from this plant to mitigate risks tied to regulatory changes. Additionally, keeping an eye on the evolving activity levels of Heyuan Derun Steel Co., Ltd. could reveal opportunities for competitive sourcing, should production continue to stabilize in line with domestic and external demand.

In essence, buyers are advised to reassess their procurement strategies to leverage current production capacities effectively while preparing for adjustments resulting from regulatory transitions within the Chinese steel market.