en.Wedoany.com Reported - Data from the China Iron and Steel Association (CISA) shows that in early May 2026 (1st–10th), the total steel inventory of key enterprises was approximately 16.88 million tons, an increase of 1.45 million tons or 9.4% compared to 15.43 million tons in late April. Compared with 17.51 million tons in early April, inventory decreased by 630,000 tons, a decline of 3.6%; however, it increased by 820,000 tons or 5.1% compared to the same period last year. The main reason for the inventory rise is that steel mills continued production, while weakening demand in the construction and manufacturing sectors led to slower procurement and inventory buildup.

In early May, the average daily crude steel output of key enterprises was approximately 2.11 million tons, an increase of 3.6% from 2.03 million tons in late April, but a decrease of 4.3% from 2.21 million tons in early May 2025. The average daily finished steel output was 1.942 million tons, down 9.9% from 2.155 million tons in late April and also down 6.8% year-on-year. The average daily pig iron output was approximately 1.89 million tons, an increase of 2.45% from 1.85 million tons in late April, but a decrease of 4.8% year-on-year.

Looking ahead, China's steel market is expected to remain stable in mid-May, supported by improving construction demand, favorable weather, and reduced long product output due to maintenance. Construction steel inventory may decline further, but a slowdown in destocking for some flat products could make overall market sentiment more cautious.

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