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Positive Momentum in Asia’s Steel Market: China’s Semi-Finished Exports Surge by 47.8%

Strong international demand is driving a positive steel market in Asia, notably in China and India. Recent reports highlight a significant upswing in Chinese semi-finished steel exports, as evidenced by “China increased exports of semi-finished products by 47.8% y/y in January–April“ and “China’s semis exports up 47.77% in Jan-Apr 2026“. This surge aligns with satellite observations indicating steady activity levels at key plants such as the Ch’ollima Steel Complex and Solb Steel Jizan.

Activity levels among the observed plants reflect notable dynamics. The Ch’ollima Steel Complex in North Korea has recorded stable activity, peaking at 53% in April. In contrast, the Solb Steel Jizan plant experienced dips, particularly in May, dropping to 78%, despite having a higher production capacity of 1,200 metric tons via Electric Arc Furnace (EAF). Notably, Ege Steel Aliaga showed a dramatic decline to 12% in May from 39% in December, indicating reduced operational efficiency potentially impacted by external market pressures.

The Ch’ollima Steel Complex focuses on producing semi-finished and finished rolled products, including plates and wire rods. Given the mentioned increase in demand for semi-finished steel, as stated in the articles, the plant’s production capability might align with burgeoning international orders. Meanwhile, the Solb Steel Jizan plant caters primarily to rolled products, which have benefited from higher demand while witnessing fluctuations in activity.

As global supply chains shift, particularly with the “US reduced imports of rolled steel by 30.5% y/y in January–April”, the focus for buyers should be on regions experiencing stability or growth in activity. The increases in India’s rolled steel exports, cited in “India increased rolled steel exports by 24.9% y/y in April,” indicate a valid opportunity for procurement professionals to source steel from robust markets. This aligns with a strategic pivot as demand patterns shift globally.

Despite the positive outlook, potential supply disruptions exist, particularly if demand from China and India continues to outpace domestic production capabilities. Recommended actions for steel procurement professionals include actively monitoring suppliers in these regions, especially those associated with semi-finished products, to capitalize on current export dynamics, and evaluating the health of plant activities as a predictive measure for supply reliability.