In July, total exports of copper wire rod (HS codes 74081100 and 74081900) showed a MoM decrease and a YoY increase. The specific data are as follows:
According to customs statistics, China's total copper wire rod exports were 23,800 mt, down 27.01% MoM and up 39.6% YoY. Exports of refined copper wire with a maximum cross-sectional dimension >6 mm were 14,200 mt, down 38.53% MoM and up 43.57% YoY. Monthly exports of other refined copper wire were 9,700 mt, up 0.62% MoM and up 34.17% YoY.
In July 2026, copper wire rod exports (HS code 74081100, 74081900) declined significantly. Higher copper prices and elevated imported copper premiums pushed up export costs and quotes simultaneously, with sparse overseas inquiries and only essential orders providing support. By trade mode, China's copper wire rod exports in July 2026 remained dominated by processing trade. Among them, processing trade with imported materials accounted for 62.79%, processing trade with supplied materials for 29.49%, Entrepot Trade by Customs Special Control Area for 5.61%, and Ordinary Trade for 2.09%.
By country, the top five markets for copper wire rod exports in July were Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, which together accounted for over 60% of total exports, with the share decreasing MoM. Malaysia fell 8.45% MoM but still ranked first, supported by rigid demand. India performed impressively, boosted by infrastructure projects such as PV and power grid that collectively entered the construction and stockpiling phase. Local copper rod capacity could not meet demand, and import demand continued to release, driving China's exports of copper rod to India up 106.88% MoM. Exports from other countries all pulled back, constrained by prices.
In summary, in July 2026, China’s copper wire rod exports fell under pressure. Elevated copper prices and imported copper premiums pushed up export costs, while overseas demand was suppressed and lagged, ultimately leading to a MoM decline in exports. Entering August, as imported copper premiums pulled back and export processing fees were lowered, previously suppressed lagged demand was released in a concentrated manner, and export orders rebounded markedly. Copper wire rod exports in August are expected to rebound MoM.
