Steel Eases as China Curbs Output

2026-02-26 06:47 By Jam Kaimo Samonte 1 min. read

Steel rebar futures fell below CNY 3,060 per ton, giving back recent gains after Chinese authorities instructed mills in Northern China to temporarily scale back operations to curb pollution during the annual sessions of the National People's Congress.

Under the so-called “blue skies” directive, mills were required to cut blast furnace output by 30% for one week starting March 4 to limit emissions in Beijing during the high-profile political gatherings.

Investors also continued to gauge demand conditions in top consumer China, where economic activity has remained subdued following the Lunar New Year holiday.

Analysts expect steel consumption to soften in the first half of the year amid lingering property sector weakness and cautious industrial activity.

Meanwhile, the industry is monitoring potential trade repercussions after the US Supreme Court’s ruling on tariffs, which could prompt additional protectionist measures.



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