Steel, the cornerstone of modern industry, will face new regulatory measures in China's international trade framework. A joint announcement (No. 79 of 2025) issued by the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs on December 9, 2025, signals a significant shift in the management of steel product exports.
This policy development doesn't emerge in isolation but builds upon existing legal frameworks including the Foreign Trade Law of the People's Republic of China , the Regulations on the Administration of the Import and Export of Goods , and the Measures for the Administration of Export Licenses for Goods . The measures aim to standardize export procedures, enhance product quality, and safeguard national trade interests.
Scope of Export License Management
The announcement's central provision establishes export license requirements for specific steel products. An attached catalog details the exact categories subject to these new regulations, indicating that future exports of these materials will face stricter oversight. Exporting enterprises must now meet enhanced qualification standards.
License Application Procedures
Under the new rules, foreign trade operators seeking to export listed steel products must submit two critical documents: a valid export contract demonstrating legitimate trade activity, and a quality inspection certificate from the manufacturer confirming compliance with standards.
The Ministry of Commerce and its authorized provincial/sub-provincial commerce departments will handle license issuance. Central enterprises supervised by the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission will obtain licenses directly from the Ministry's license bureau, while other enterprises must apply through local commerce authorities. Unspecified matters will continue to follow provisions in the 2024 Announcement No. 65 from both ministries, ensuring policy continuity.
Implementation Timeline
The policy includes a transitional period, with the export license management system scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026 . This grace period allows enterprises adequate time to adjust production and trade strategies to accommodate the new regulatory environment, reflecting the policy's deliberate and pragmatic design.
Industry Implications
The export license system is expected to reshape China's steel export landscape. While potentially raising industry standards and global competitiveness by phasing out obsolete production capacity, the measures may present challenges for smaller exporters, compelling greater attention to quality control and regulatory compliance.
Analysts suggest these changes will foster sustainable development in China's steel sector while contributing to fairer international trade practices. The long-term effects may include strengthened market positioning for compliant manufacturers and more orderly export channels.