Some Chinese steel exporters have stopped making new offers to customers in the Middle East as conflict-related disruption chokes shipping through the Straits of Hormuz, traders and analysts said.
Shipping through the vital waterway between Iran and Oman has slowed sharply amid retaliation and attacks linked to the Middle East conflict.
Freight rates have jumped, and insurers have pulled war-risk coverage, making Gulf-bound cargoes harder to move.
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The Gulf region is a major market for China’s steel, taking a significant share of exports before the disruption.
With vessels scarce and routes risky, some exporters have paused offers rather than commit to uncertain shipment schedules.
Analysts say the supply gap could pressure regional steel availability and weigh on markets if disruptions persist.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical maritime chokepoint for global trade, with ongoing tensions keeping many ships at anchor.
