Buy Steel from China? China has projected itself not only as the largest steel but also a leading exporter and producer across the globe. In this article, we can discover the way to find a steel supplier, the top 20 steel manufactures in China, and key factors you need to consider when importing steel from China.
Content
Chapter 1. Global Steel Pipes Market: a Booming Industry
Source: https://www.researchnester.com/
"Steel Pipes Market in 2025 is assessed at USD 103.82 billion. The global market size was over USD 100.84 billion in 2024and is set to experience a CAGR of over 3.7%, reaching USD 161.72 billion by 2037. Asia Pacific is forecast to attain USD43.66 billion by 2037, driven by large manufacturing and petrochemical industries in China and India.
An increase in the number of new petrochemical facilities being built globally is anticipated to drive up demand for steel pipes and tubes. In addition, steel pipes are widely used for structural purposes in the building industry, They are, employed in the construction of pilings, scaffolding, and frameworks.
The growth of the building industry, especially in emerging nations will fuel the steel pipes market revenue. Urbanization and population growth are expected to have a positive effect on the market expansion.
Moreover, government investments in infrastructure projects such as airports, bridges, and roadways are driving the demand for steel pipes.
Chapter 2. How to Find a Steel Supplier in China?
Navigating the market for steel is not the only way to source steel from China. In addition to making market visit in China yourself, there other 5 ways available to find an steel in China.
1. Online wholesales websites
Alibaba
The most famous online international B2B marketplace in China is Alibaba, most Chinese steel manufacturers list their products on Alibaba. This platform can be a good start if you are new to the industry and want to source potential suppliers for importing steel pipes from China.
Alibaba is a powerful online marketplace that provides buyers and sellers with the opportunity to conduct business with each other from all over the world. It is especially known for being cost-efficient, has a huge e-commerce market with millions of products sold every day and offer a reliable after-sale service.
Made in China
Another great website to source quality steel from China is Made-in-China, it’s a B2B e-commerce platform, with more than 22,000 results for steel – you can easily make comparisons and purchase products in a cost-efficient way.
Tips:
It’s a good idea to book a supplier audit or Pre-shipment inspection with a trusted third party the first time you’re importing Chinese steel. As this will ensure the Chinese supplier is legitimate and the quality is up to the standard.
2. Top 4 Steel Material Exhibitions in China
China International Metal & Metallurgy Exhibition
Metallurgy China hosted by the China Iron and Steel Association (CISA) and the Metallurgical Council of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (MC-CCPIT)
Location: Shanghai / Beijing (rotating)
Key Features:
- One of Asia’s largest metallurgy & steel trade fairs
- Covers iron & steel production, metal processing, and new materials
- Attracts global giants like ArcelorMittal, POSCO, and Baowu Group
China International Steel Congress (CISCE)
China International Steel Congress is Organized by China Iron and Steel Association (CISA). It is a biennial high-level conference focusing on the profound, overall and strategic issues of development of the steel industry. Since its establishment in 2000, the congress has been successfully held for eleven times and enjoys an esteemed reputation globally.
Location: Shanghai
Key Features:
- High-level industry summit + exhibition
- Focus on steel technology, market trends, and green steelmaking
- Major participants: HBIS, Shagang, Tata Steel
Contact：
- E-mail: steel@mcchina.org.cn
- Website: www.steelcongress.com
Guangzhou International Metal & Metallurgy Exhibition
China (Guangzhou) International Metal & Metallurgy exhibition 2024
China (Guangzhou) International Metal & Metallurgy exhibition presents quality products and services in the industry like, sheet metal, laser equipment, die casting, casting products, heat treatment, foundry, non-ferrous metals, tubes, pipes and more!
The trade show gathers professional visitors from Asia, and all over the world, to present new, innovative, products and introduce upcoming industry trends.
Location: Guangzhou
Key Features:
- Key event for Southern China’s manufacturing hub
- Strong focus on automotive steel, stainless steel, and metal forming
- Attracts 50,000+ professional buyers annually
Key products to be presented at the trade show:
- Plate metal, Bar, Wire, Steel Rope , Metal Processing and Setting Equipment
- Tube & Pipe Industry
- Stainless Steel Industry
- Non-Ferrous Metals（Copper）
- Fasteners,Springs & Equipment
- Sheet metal Industry and Laser Equipment
- Die casting, Casting Products，Foundry, Heat Treatment and Industrial Furnace
Shanghai International Tube Industry Exhibition (Tube China)
Tube China was founded in 2004, after more than 20 years of accumulation, Tube China has not only become Asia's leading tube and pipe industry exhibition, but also a pioneer in the industry.
The organizers Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. and MC-CCPIT will leverage their respective advantages to promote technological innovation, green and intelligent transformation, focus on industry trending topics and provide a brand-new upgraded trade platform to present the state-of-the-art products, technologies and solutions from a professional perspective.
Location: Shanghai
Key Features:
- Asia’s leading trade fair for pipes & tubes
- Covers seamless & welded steel pipes for oil & gas, construction
- Major exhibitors: Tenaris, Vallourec, TPCO
Product Category:
- Raw Materials / Tubes / Accessories
- Tube Manufacturing Machinery
- Heat Treatment Processing and Machinery (NEW)
- Rebuilt / Reconditioned Machinery
- Sawing and Industrial Cutting Machinery (NEW)
- Process Technology Tools / Auxiliaries
Measuring / Control Technology - Testing Engineering
- Specialist Areas
- Trading / Stockists of Tubes
- Pipeline / OCTG Technology
- Profiles / Machinery
- Plastic Tube and Compound Pipe
- Others
Contact:
Tel.: +86 21 6169 8374 / -8369
Email: tube@mds.cn
3. Popular Chinese Wholesale Steel Markets
China hosts some of the world's largest steel trading hubs, serving both domestic demand and global exports. Here are the top steel markets in China:
- Shanghai Baoshan Steel Market
- Lecong Steel World, Foshan
- Tianjin Huabei Steel Market
- Hangzhou Canal Steel Market
- Wuhan Dancuishui Steel Market
4. Hire a Sourcing Agent
Using a sourcing agent is an efficient way to find an affordable China steel supplier, especially if you are abroad. From the first step of looking for suppliers to the customs clearance at the destination port, the entire sourcing process will be handled by them. These companies can guide you to find the best products, help you with sourcing, shipping and distribution.
5. Buy from Different Factories
Lastly, you can also directly buy from factories. The most significant advantage of buying directly from factories is that you will not pay for the middleman or sourcing agents. Nevertheless, there is no way to ensure what you get until and unless you personally visit the factories.
Chapter 3. Top 20 Steel Manufactures in China
1. China Baowu Steel Group
China Baowu Steel Group
Baowu Steel is the China largest and most influential steel conglomerate, headquartered in Shanghai.
2. HBIS Group (Hebei Iron & Steel)
HBIS Group is the third-largest steel company in China, with extensive experience in steel production and advanced technological equipment. Its products are widely used in various fields such as construction, automobiles, and machinery.
3. Shagang Group
Jiangsu Shagang Group Co., Ltd. Jiangsu Shagang Group, one of the world’s famous steel material manufacturer and comprehensive service supplier, was founded in 1975 and headquartered in Zhangjiagang City of Jiangsu Province.
It is currently a national super large private steel enterprise, a national innovative enterprise, and an international conglomerate with a focus on steel and diversified development, ranking 383 on the Global 500 in 2024.
4. Ansteel Group
Ansteel was originated from merger and reorganization of Anshan lron and Steel Group Corporationand Pangang Group Co., Ltd. in May 2010.
Ansteel Group Corporation has the production capability of 39 milion tons of raw steel, produces 3000 steel grades and more than 60000 specifications of high-tech and high value-added steel, vanadium and titanium products with good quality.
The products of Ansteel are sold to more than 60 countries and regions. it has 26 overseas companies and organizations and more than 500 domestic and international customers and partners.
5. Shougang Group
Shougang Group Co., Ltd., formerly known as Shougang Corporation, is a major state-owned enterprise based in Beijing, China. Founded in 1919, it is one of China's oldest and most prominent steel producers. Over the years, Shougang has diversified into mining, real estate, environmental services, and technology-related industries.
6. Jianlong Group
Jianlong Steel is the largest private-owned enterprise in Tangshan, Hebei province, China with the output of crude steel 6.5 million tonnes in a year. The company was established in the year 2000, from near-bankrupt predecessor Zunhua Steel.
7. Shandong Iron & Steel Group
Shandong Iron & Steel Group is a Chinese steel company based in Jinan. 2015 it was ranked as 12th biggest steel producer of the world with a production of 21.7 million tons of steel.
The main steel products include five series of plate and strip, plate, section steel, special steel and building materials, covering high-end equipment, marine engineering, automotive steel, power station boiler, rail transportation, white household appliances, petrochemical equipment, engineering machinery and other key areas. These steel products are sold well throughout the country and exported to more than 70 countries and regions.
8. Liuzhou Iron & Steel
Guangxi Liuzhou Iron and Steel Group has become the largest iron and steel complex in South and Southwest China. It is also one of China's top 500 enterprises and one of the world's top 50 steel enterprises.
The group is mainly engaged in steel manufacturing. Its business covers logistics and trade, environmental protection and comprehensive utilization of resources, the energy and chemicals industry, as well as other sectors like real estate and medical care.
9. Valin Steel
Hunan Valin Steel Co., Ltd. is a Chinese state-owned company based in Changsha. Founded in 1997, it is primarily engaged in the smelting, manufacture and sale of iron and steel products, as well as nonferrous metal products.
10. Nanjing Iron & Steel
Founded in 1958, NISCO is a large-scale steel enterprise and also one of the 18 key steel enterprises strategically deployed by the state. At present, NISCO has an annual capacity of 10 million tons of steel.
NISCO has the plate production lines with the most complete range of specifications, the most reasonable division and the most outstanding advantages as well as the special steel production lines with unique features of high efficiency, high quality and low cost.
11-20 Notable Steel Companies:
11. TISCO (Taiyuan Steel)
12. Xinyu Iron & Steel
13. Fangda Steel
14. Benxi Steel
15. Jiuquan Steel
16. Sansteel Minguang
17. Rizhao Steel
18. Zhongtian Steel
19. Dongbei Special Steel
20. Baotou Steel
Chapter 4. How to Import Steel from China: Key Points to Consider
Importing steel from China can be a cost-effective strategy for businesses worldwide, thanks to China's vast production capacity, competitive pricing, and diverse range of steel products. However, to ensure a smooth and successful import process, importers need to carefully consider several key factors:
1. Local regulations
You should always check the laws in your country before importing. Keep track of the regulations in your market, confirm if the steel type needs import permits or certification, and some countries require anti-dumping duties or quota licenses for Chinese steel.
2. Certification
Steel products must meet relevant international or national standards. Be sure to:
- Request Mill Test Certificates (MTC) or Material Test Reports (MTR) from the supplier.
- Verify certifications like:
- ISO 9001 for quality systems
- CE marking (if importing to Europe)
- ASTM, JIS, DIN, or GB compliance, depending on your region
- Ask for third-party inspection reports when necessary.
3. Quality control
Quality inspections of steel products are important to ensure that the products you’re purchasing meet industry standards and customer-specific requirements. No matter yourself or the qc employed should pay attention to the quality control management, supplier and subcontractor control, product inspection, and safety testing and product control of your steel supplier.
Partnering with a third-party QC provider like GIS can minimize quality risks. Conduct inspections at different stages:
Steel inspections can often help you identify faults or irregularities in the material – even before you receive the products from your supplier- saving you both cost and time.
But not only does it ensure the reliability and safety of the steel, but it can also verify that the produced steel products use a particular grade of steel and meets agreed-upon standards set by industry bodies such as ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or AISI (American Iron and Steel Institute).
Steel Inspection: What Quality Inspection Is Best for Steel Products?
There are four primary types of quality inspections used in quality control; however, when it comes to steel products, the most required inspections are often：
Risks During and After Steel Pre Shipment Inspection
Here are some of the main risks that are associated with a pre shipment inspection：
- Don’t forget the check the steel grade, the supplier may substitute your steel products that are of a foreign standard with those of a similar domestic standard.
- It’s important to test the chemical composition to check the authenticity of the materials and compare the testing result with the MTC. For example, some materials may be of lower grade materials (for example, SS201 instead of the required SS316).
- Ask the supplier to package all the materials on-site when the inspector is present so that they do not try to lower the quantity, especially the coils, which cannot be counted by pieces, after the inspection. Ask the inspector to stick or sign on the package to prevent someone from opening and repackaging the materials.
- Be aware that some machines may be tampered by the supplier and may give inaccurate readings, especially for those that are harder to calculate on-site, such as steel coils.
4. Documents for importing steel from China
Prepare and verify all required documentation for a successful shipment:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (B/L)
- Certificate of Origin
- Mill Test Certificate (MTC)
- Insurance Certificate (if applicable)
- Inspection Certificates (if requested by customs or buyer)
Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays, fines, or shipment rejection at customs.
Chapter 5. Steel Safety Regulations and Standards
The steel industry plays a key role in the global economy, and industrial steel standards are essential to ensure the quality and safety of steel products.
These regulations and guidelines, which include ISO and other international certifications, set the standards that govern the production, properties and performance of steel. And in a world that is increasingly sustainability-conscious, these regulations also have an impact on the industry’s environmental and social practices.
ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
- ISO 4948/4949 – Classification and designation of steel.
- ISO 9001 – Quality management systems for steel manufacturing processes.
- ISO 6892 – Tensile testing of metallic materials.
- ISO 6507 / ISO 6508 – Hardness testing standards (Vickers, Rockwell).
ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)
ASTM's steel standards are instrumental in classifying, evaluating, and specifying the material, chemical, mechanical, and metallurgical properties of the different types of steels, which are primarily used in the production of mechanical components, industrial parts, and construction elements, as well as other accessories related to them. The steels can be of the carbon, structural, stainless, ferritic, austenitic, and alloy types.
These steel standards are helpful in guiding metallurgical laboratories and refineries, product manufacturers, and other end-users of steel and its variants in their proper processing and application procedures to ensure quality towards safe use.
Learn the detail: https://store.astm.org/products-services/standards-and-publications/standards/steel-standards.html
Conclusion. How to Import Steel from China
The steel market is growing rapidly, and with China being at the forefront of the industry – many importers are sourcing steel in China.
The steel manufacturers in China can be found on many platforms including online, via sourcing agents, and in trade shows. But when it comes to importing steel from China, it’s important to choose a legitimate supplier and the product quality is good. In these circumstances, it is good to rely on an experienced third-party company, GIS Inspection.
In international manufacturing and trade, industrial inspection provides confidence to buyers, reduces disputes, and ensures that products shipped overseas meet both contract and legal requirements.
We can help you with a range of services, including our quality inspection services supplier audit, pre-shipment inspection, and loading supervision for steel quality inspection.
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