Deng Jun, executive vice-president of Aux Group, said, "The rising prices of aluminum, copper and steel (iron ore) have forced us and the whole industry to raise product prices."

With more than 10,000 registered coal traders, the CTCTC is the largest coal trading center in China.

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

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

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

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

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

The measures will go into effect on June 1, the ministry said.