China’s Rolled Steel Market Growth in Ukraine
China has significantly expanded its presence in the Ukrainian rolled steel market in the first half of 2025. Imports of Chinese rolled steel products rose by 69.7% year-on-year to 86.91 thousand tons. This increase raised China’s share of Ukrainian steel imports to 12.7%, up from 9.3% in 2024. Flat rolled steel products, including hot-rolled, cold-rolled, and coated types, accounted for the majority of imports, with hot-rolled flat products surging 225.4% year-on-year.
The growth in Chinese long rolled steel products was even more dramatic, rising 307.5% to 20.68 thousand tons. This segment includes rebar and wire rod products, which traditionally form a key part of Ukraine’s domestic steel industry. The sharp increase in imports of these products has raised concerns among Ukrainian producers about fair competition and market sustainability.
Challenges for Ukrainian Steelmakers Amid Rising Chinese Imports
Olexander Kalenkov, president of Ukrmetprom, highlights the growing threat that Chinese and Turkish steel imports pose to Ukraine’s domestic producers. The surge in long rolled steel imports—products Ukrainian companies are capable of manufacturing—risks undercutting local industry. Kalenkov warns that imported steel benefits from lower prices thanks to cheaper energy and Russian steel billets, creating unfair competition.
Ukrmetprom urges immediate state intervention to protect Ukrainian steel producers and safeguard the domestic market. The association fears losing this critical “safety cushion” during Ukraine’s ongoing war and post-war reconstruction phase. Without protective measures, Ukrainian steelmakers may permanently lose market share, affecting the sector’s recovery and sustainability.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
China’s expanding footprint in Ukraine’s rolled steel market underscores the evolving dynamics in global steel trade. The 70% surge in imports shows China’s strategic supply growth, driven by competitive pricing and aggressive export strategies. However, this trend presents a significant challenge for Ukraine’s domestic steel industry, especially amid geopolitical tensions and energy cost disparities. Policymakers must balance open trade with protective frameworks to maintain a resilient steel sector critical to Ukraine’s infrastructure and recovery efforts.
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