金属材料流通协会陈雷鸣：钢铁产品出口许可证管理有利于规范出口行为

Core Viewpoint - The Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs announced the implementation of export license management for certain steel products starting January 1, 2026, marking a new phase in China's steel export management after a 16-year hiatus since 2009 [1][2]. Group 1: Current Challenges in the Steel Industry - China's steel export data shows a facade of prosperity, with 2025 H1 steel exports reaching 58.15 million tons, a 9.2% year-on-year increase, while the average export price fell to $699.3 per ton, a 10.3% decline, leading to a total export value of $40.66 billion, down 2.0% year-on-year [3]. - The surge in low-value primary product exports and the increase in trade friction cases indicate structural contradictions within the industry, which are exacerbated by a "volume compensates for price" export model that increases energy consumption and carbon emissions [3]. Group 2: Positive Implications of Export License Management - The export license management policy is expected to curb the chaotic export of low-value products, as it will raise compliance costs for such exports, compelling companies to adjust their product structures [2][3]. - This policy will help companies navigate international trade barriers by encouraging them to optimize their export market strategies and reduce reliance on traditional markets with high anti-dumping duties, while exploring emerging markets in Africa and Latin America [2][3]. - The management will also promote green transformation within the industry, coinciding with the steel sector's inclusion in the national carbon emissions trading market and the upcoming EU carbon border adjustment mechanism [2][3]. Group 3: Recommendations for Steel Companies - Companies are advised to familiarize themselves with the specific product catalog under management and prepare necessary export contracts and quality inspection certificates ahead of time [4]. - From December 15, 2025, companies can apply for export licenses for 2026, and early planning is encouraged [4]. - Increased investment in R&D for high-performance products such as bearing steel, gear steel, and high-temperature alloys is recommended, with some leading domestic companies already exporting "green steel" products that achieve a 50% reduction in carbon emissions per ton through full-process carbon verification [4].