In the January-March period, crude steel output rose 15.6 percent year on year to 271 million tonnes.

Market analysis says higher steel prices could also benefit decarbonization initiatives in the industry.

The change in the environment has also improved the quality of local people's lives.

Sales revenues of the enterprises reached 1.54 trillion yuan, up 52.28 percent compared with a year ago, showed the data.

Support is being given to peaking pioneers from localities, sectors and companies.

Export tariffs on ferrosilicon, ferrochrome, high-purity pig iron would be raised to 25 percent, 20 percent and 15 percent, respectively.

In 2020, crude steel output rose by 5.2 percent year on year to exceed 1.05 billion tonnes, according to the China Iron and Steel Association.

A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while a reading below reflects contraction.