Taiwan’s China Steel Corporation (CSC) raised its June hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices by NT$1,200 per ton, bringing the base price to approximately NT$21,000 (US$665). This third consecutive monthly hike totals a NT$3,600 increase since April. At $665, Taiwan’s HRC prices now lead Asia, significantly exceeding offers from India and Vietnam.

Downstream players fear this premium makes Taiwan a prime target for foreign imports. In response, CSC prepared a contingency plan. The company regards high steel prices as a global trend fueled by rising energy and freight costs. To protect the market, CSC may pursue anti-dumping actions against Japanese and South Korean mills if voluntary volume restraints fail.

In addition, CSC is actively pushing a trade case against Chinese cold-rolled imports to reclaim domestic market share.

For Southeast Asian competitors, CSC plans to work with authorities and experts to restrict imported precast beams and columns. These imported products directly erode the market share of domestically produced steel plates and H-beams. By setting new regulatory measures, CSC aims to curb this trend and protect demand for local construction and building sectors.