WANA (Aug 24) – The sharp rise in China’s steel exports has rung alarm bells for Iranian exporters. Once an importer of semi-finished steel from Iran, China has now become one of the world’s largest exporters—targeting exactly the same markets that Iranian producers are competing for.

 

According to official Chinese customs data, the country’s semi-finished steel exports in July 2025 reached 1.58 million tons, up 349% compared with the same month last year. Total semi-finished and finished steel exports in July stood at 11.416 million tons, marking the fourth-highest monthly record in history.

China’s Warning for Iranian Steel Exporters

From January to July this year, China’s steel exports surged by 20.1% to 75.461 million tons, while imports dropped nearly 28%. As a result, China’s net exports jumped 24.8%, reaching over 71 million tons.

 

Analysts say new tax restrictions, set to take effect in October, have prompted Chinese producers to boost shipments ahead of time. However, exports are expected to slow down from October due to last year’s record high and rising domestic steel prices.

 

Despite this possible slowdown, market observers predict China’s total steel exports in 2025 will still surpass last year’s levels. In 2024, China set a historic record with 117 million tons of exports.

China’s Warning for Iranian Steel Exporters

Meanwhile, trade sources warn that increasing anti-dumping cases against Chinese flat steel products—particularly from Vietnam and South Korea—may put further pressure on exports. On the other hand, demand for long products such as billets and wire rods is expected to remain strong, as they face fewer trade barriers and enjoy growing demand in emerging markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

 

Experts believe these developments could make competition tougher for Iranian steel exporters, as China not only expands its footprint in shared markets but also leverages competitive volumes and pricing, reducing Iran’s bargaining power.