Late-September input prices: copper rises as steel and LNG ease
China’s late-September distribution-market survey shows copper up 2.7% from mid-month, while selected steel products and LNG eased. These are statistical averages, not valve quotations.
The story explained
The October 9 release covers September 21–30, compared with September 11–20. Of 50 monitored products, 22 rose, 23 fell and five were unchanged. The series records distribution-market prices, including circulation costs, margins and taxes.
Selected averages in CNY per tonne were: No. 1 electrolytic copper 111,742.5 (+2.7%); Q235 hot-rolled coil, 4.75–11.5 mm, 3,297.1 (−0.4%); Q235 20 mm plate 3,537.4 (−0.3%); 20# seamless pipe, 219×6, 4,020.6 (change rounded to 0.0%); and LNG 6,185.9 (−0.6%).
These product specifications matter. Carbon-steel plate and pipe prices do not represent stainless steel, duplex alloys or valve castings. A purchasing comparison still requires matching grades, dimensions, delivery locations and quotation dates.
Why it matters
Editorial analysis: copper-sensitive actuator and electrical components may face a different cost direction from carbon-steel inputs. Break a valve or actuator bill of materials into its actual exposure before adjusting quotations; an input-price move does not translate one-for-one into the finished equipment price.
Relevant toPurchasing, costing and sales teams
What to watch next
Compare the next ten-day release with supplier quotations for identical specifications and separate metal, machining and delivery costs.
These are research prompts, not announced tenders or confirmed subsequent developments.
国家统计局 / NBS
流通领域重要生产资料市场价格变动情况（2026年9月下旬）
This is an independently written summary and analysis, not an official translation. Project plans and status may change.