A surge in Chinese exports to the U.S. has emerged as companies rush to ship goods during the 90-day tariff truce. Container orders have reportedly tripled, reversing earlier fears of a sharp export decline and injecting strong momentum into second and third-quarter trade.

The export boom has fueled a recovery in manufacturing, driving up demand for flat steel products and supporting a broader rebound in China’s steel market. Meanwhile, domestic demand for construction steel remains resilient, supported by special local government funding and central bank liquidity, despite seasonal challenges from rain and high temperatures.