China’s 2026 government report, released during the annual session of the National People’s Congress, is expected to support demand for stainless steel. The report highlights modern production development, consumption stimulation, and ecological modernization as key factors supporting the market.

The expansion of high-tech industries is expected to be a major driver. China is focusing on sectors such as integrated circuits, aerospace, biomedicine, and emerging fields, including future energy, quantum technologies, embodied artificial intelligence, neurointerfaces, and 6G. These industries require high-performance materials, supporting demand for high-value-added stainless steel grades.

Demand will also be supported by the new energy vehicle sector. China produced more than 16 million new energy vehicles in 2025, while sales in 2026 could reach 19 million units, increasing stainless steel use in automotive applications. Government programs aimed at boosting consumption and infrastructure investment, including upgrades of consumer goods, national projects, water management facilities, and pipeline modernization, are also expected to expand stainless steel use.