SMM Copper Wire and Cable Operating Rate Dips to 66.1% Amid High Prices and Off-Season Slump

According to data from the General Administration of Customs, in May 2026, China's copper plate/sheet and strip exports totaled 12,405.48 mt, up 1.3% MoM and 12.42% YoY; from January to May, cumulative exports of copper plate/sheet and strip reached 57,893.07 mt, a cumulative increase of 15.57% YoY.

In May 2026, China's copper plate/sheet and strip exports maintained a steady growth momentum, with total monthly exports of 12,405 mt, up 12.42% YoY, covering 101 countries and regions, as the diversified export layout continued to deepen. By region, South Korea, Vietnam, and Taiwan, China were the top three core export markets, together accounting for nearly 35% of total exports. Among them, exports to Taiwan, China surged 55.9% YoY, pushing its share to 9.8%; exports to South Korea and Vietnam grew 23.9% and 21.2% YoY, respectively, with demand remaining strong. The Canadian market saw the most notable increase, with May exports skyrocketing 247.8% YoY. In addition, exports to India, Japan, Germany, and Thailand all experienced varying degrees of decline YoY.