In July 2025, China’s stainless steel exports rose while imports fell sharply. Customs data showed exports increased by 6.76% from the previous month to 416,300 tons, whereas imports dropped by 33.3% to just 73,000 tons. As a result, net exports reached 343,300 tons, up more than 22% from June. 

Imports from Indonesia, a key supplier, fell significantly by over 46% month-on-month. This was mainly due to reduced shipments of wide cold-rolled and semi-finished products. 

Meanwhile, ferronickel imports declined almost 20% from June due to lower demand from domestic mills. However, with stainless steel prices recovering, a rebound in ferronickel imports is expected in August. 

Nickel ore imports rose 15% month-on-month, supported by higher shipments from the Philippines. 

China’s stainless steel trade in July was marked by strong export performance and weaker import demand, with temporary cuts in raw material purchases.