[SMM Hot Topic] Summary of National Electric Furnace Plants' Annual Shutdown Plans During Chinese New Year

As the Chinese New Year approaches, EAF steel mills are gradually entering their annual holiday period. According to SMM sample statistics, as of January 15, a total of 31 electric furnace mills nationwide have confirmed their shutdown and holiday schedules. Overall, the peak shutdown period for electric furnace mills in 2025 is expected to fall between January 15 and 20. By region, EAF steel mills in east China started their holidays earlier, with some mills ceasing production right after New Year's Day. In contrast, mills in south and south-west China are expected to shut down later, mostly around January 20. Some mills have indicated plans to rush to meet deadlines before the holiday, using up their steel scrap inventory before officially starting their annual holiday. Regarding resumption of production, most steel mills are expected to resume operations around the tenth or fifteenth day of the Lunar New Year. Below is the detailed annual holiday schedule for EAF steel mills:

SMM will continue to survey and track updates on additional annual holidays and post-holiday resumption plans for EAF steel mills. Please stay tuned.