China’s steel export dips by 8% in 2018 on higher local margins

摘要

Chinese steel exporters reduced shipments in 2018 amid a stronger local market, although December volumes increasedon lower prices.Total steel shipments to abroad were cut by 6 million t or 8.1% to 69.3 million t, General Administration of Customsof China reported on Monday, January 14. This decline was in line with expectations, as the domestic market was onthe rise during the most part of the year. Local quotes were much more attractive for steelmakers than internationaltrading. Besides, margins were also increasing in 2018, as raw materials quotes were not following steel prices closely.