1. Must steel exports go through an agency company?

According to China's latest trade policy for 2025,Non-production enterprises exporting steel products must entrust qualifiedforeign tradeAgency company。Manufacturers can choose between self-operated export or entrusting an agent, but it is important to note:

• For production-oriented exports, the following are required:Import and exportProduction qualifications for power and steel products
• Special steel grades (such as alloy steel, armor steel) require a military export license.
• Steel products subject to export control must be declared through designated agent companies.

II. Selection of SteelExport Agent ServicesWhat qualifications need to be verified for business?

A compliant steel export agent should possess:

• Import and export operation rights approved by the Ministry of Commerce
• Filing and Registration for Import and Export of Steel Products
• ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certification
• Special qualifications:
  • Hazardous Materials Transportation Qualification (for export of galvanized steel and other surface-treated materials)
  • CE Certification Agency Qualification (?Export to the EU?Market)

III. Iron and SteelExport ClearanceWhat are the key considerations?

In accordance with the requirements of Announcement No. 38 of the General Administration of Customs in 2025:

• Accurately declare the commodity code:
  • Ordinary carbon steel is applicable to tariff item 72.28.
  • Stainless steel products are classified under heading 73.23.
• Required documents:
  • Material Certificate (must be stamped by the manufacturer)
  • Weight Certificate (Statutory Inspection Commodity)
  • Certificate of OriginMing (FORM A or CO required for tariff preference)

IV.International LogisticsHow to select the optimal solution?

It is recommended to make a selection based on cargo volume and destination port:

• Bulk cargo transportation:
  • A 20GP container can hold 28 tons of steel.
  • Special attention should be paid to moisture-proof and rust-proof packaging.
• Bulk cargo:
  • Chartering the entire vessel reduces transportation costs by 30-40%.
  • Reservations must be made 6 months in advance.

5. Iron and SteelTax RebatesWhat are the policy changes?

The adjustment of export tax rebate rates for steel products in 2025 is as follows:

• The ordinary carbon steel plate maintains a 13% tax rebate rate.
• The precision stainless steel pipe fittings are increased to 15%.
• New clause:
  • Export tax rebate for recycled steel raw materials is set at zero.
  • Additional 3% subsidy for the export of high-end specialty steel

VI. How to Prevent International Trade Risks?

The following risk control measures are recommended:

• Payment Method:
  • The new customer requests a 30% advance payment.
  • Block trading usage?L/C?Settlement
• Quality Dispute:
  • Third-party inspection before shipment (SGS or BV is recommended)
  • Retain sufficient samples (keep for at least 6 months).

7. What are the special requirements for emerging markets?

Key Market Access Regulations:

• Southeast Asian countries:
  • Indonesia requires SNI certification.
  • Vietnam requests import quotas for steel
• African market:
  • Nigeria requires SONCAP certification.
  • Egypt requests CIQ supervision during loading.