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China Implements New Steel Export License Policy Effective Jan 1, 2026
China Implements New Steel Export License Policy Effective Jan 1, 2026
China Announces New Steel Export License Requirements Effective January 1, 2026
Policy Update | TEWOO-ITD OF XINHONGSHENG METAL — Leading Supplier of Seamless Pipes, LSAW Pipes, Low-Carbon Steel & Special Steel
Dear Valued Customers & Global Partners,
We would like to inform you of an important update to China’s steel export policy, recently issued by the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the General Administration of Customs (GACC).
On December 9, 2025, the authorities jointly released Announcement No. 79 of 2025, introducing mandatory export license management for a wide range of steel products, including seamless steel pipes, LSAW pipes, ERW pipes, carbon steel pipes, low-carbon steel, special steel, steel coils, and structural sections.
This new policy will be implemented on January 1, 2026.
Key Details of the 2026 Steel Export License Policy
Approximately 300 HS codes are now covered under the export license requirement, affecting:
Raw materials: pig iron, slabs, billets
Finished steel: hot-rolled coil, cold-rolled sheets, steel pipes (LSAW / seamless / welded), sections, and more
Exporters must apply for the license before shipment, supported by:
Valid sales contract
Manufacturer’s quality inspection certificate
This marks the first reinstatement of steel export licensing since 2009, reflecting China’s commitment to:
Standardized steel export practices
Improved product quality
Optimized trade structure
Low-carbon development aligned with global trends such as CBAM
Impact on Your Steel Orders (Seamless / LSAW / ERW / Coils)
Impact on Your Steel Orders (Seamless / LSAW / ERW / Coils)
Shipments clearing customs before December 31, 2025
→ follow existing procedures, no license required.Shipments on or after January 1, 2026
→ require the new export license, even if the PO was issued earlier.Administrative approval typically takes 3–7 working days for compliant applications.
Some downstream finished goods (fasteners, auto parts, precision components) may be exempt.
We recommend verifying your HS codes with our export team.
How TEWOO Ensures Smooth Delivery for Your 2026 Shipments
How TEWOO Ensures Smooth Delivery for Your 2026 Shipments
As a leading exporter of seamless pipes, LSAW pipes, carbon steel pipes, low-carbon steel, high-end special steel, and green-carbon steel, we have already coordinated with our partner mills to prepare advance license applications for 2026.
To ensure stable delivery and customs clearance, we recommend:
Adding a 7–10 day buffer for Q1 2026 orders
Confirming HS codes early, especially for large OD LSAW orders and seamless boiler tubes
Allowing additional time for projects with strict CBAM or quality-certification requirements
This policy is NOT a restriction on exports, but a measure to enhance:
Product traceability
Quality assurance
Long-term stability of the global steel supply chain
Need Help? We Are Here to Support You
Need Help? We Are Here to Support You
If you require assistance with:
HS code verification
Export license procedures
Delivery schedule planning
Orders for seamless pipes / LSAW pipes / low-carbon steel / green steel
Please contact your dedicated account manager or our export team.
At TEWOO-ITD OF XINHONGSHENG METAL, we remain fully committed to providing high-quality steel products, professional export services, and reliable global delivery.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.
Best regards
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