The Chinese IOC: The export license system mainly enhances the monitoring and statistical analysis of steel exports

On December 18, He Yadong, a spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOC), said that the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs jointly issued a notice announcing the introduction of an export license system for steel products covering approximately 300 HS codes. He said that the main purpose of the export license system is to strengthen monitoring and statistical analysis of steel exports, as well as tracking export quality. He stressed that this measure fully complies with WTO rules and does not impose any quantitative restrictions or restrict the right of companies to export. In addition, this measure can also help steel mills improve quality and prioritize R&D innovations.

Meanwhile, the steel export license application system opened on December 18, allowing exporters to begin applying for export licenses in 2026.