Steel production and prices in China rose in May, according to the country's main economic planning.
Crude steel production jumped 10 percent year-on-year to 89.09 million tons, while coke production increased 5.7 percent to 40.16 million tons, according to an online statement from the National Development and Reform Commission.
Steel exports decreased by 590,000 tons to 5.74 million tons last month, while imports fell to 980,000 tons.
Imports of iron ore increased by 2.98 million tons to 83.75 million tons in May.
In the first five months, steel production increased by 10.2 percent compared to the same period last year and amounted to 404.88 million tons. Coke production increased by 5.8 percent year on year to 192.49 million tons.
Steel prices rose in May on a monthly basis, partly due to an increase in iron ore prices. Accidents at the Brazilian dam of Valais and the suspension of transportation of iron ore to Australia due to cyclones raised prices for steelmaking material.
The composite index of domestic steel prices averaged 112.16 points last month compared to 112.04 points in April.
