Introduction
China plays a pivotal role in the global chrome ore market, accounting for over 90% of worldwide demand for ferrochrome — the key alloying ingredient in stainless steel. Behind this massive demand are a handful of powerful companies driving the bulk of China’s chrome ore imports. These importers range from state-owned mining and trading giants to vertically integrated private steel manufacturers and specialized alloy traders. Their operations shape not only China’s domestic alloy market but also influence global chrome pricing and supply dynamics.
In this blog, we will highlight the top 10 chrome ore importers in China based on overall market share, business scale, and industry influence — not just one-off customs data. Whether you’re a supplier looking for serious buyers or want to learn how CAMAL has helped chrome miners export to China — read our case study.
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10. China National Minerals Co., Ltd. Overview
China National Minerals Co., Ltd. Overview
China National Minerals Co., Ltd. is a core trading division under China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group (CNMC), a central SOE with a global footprint in non-ferrous mining. The company serves as a major importer of chrome ore and other strategic raw materials, supporting both CNMC’s domestic refining network and third-party steel and alloy manufacturers across China. By leveraging CNMC’s integrated mining, logistics, and smelting operations, China National Minerals ensures stable raw material flow for critical industries.
Mission Statement
To secure and diversify China’s supply of essential mineral resources by leveraging global partnerships and CNMC’s industrial platform.
Recent Achievements
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- Strengthened supply agreements with chrome producers in South Africa and Turkey
- Expanded import volumes for ferroalloy-grade chrome ore in 2024
- Enhanced customs clearance and warehousing efficiency in Tianjin and Guangzhou ports
Detailed Product Overview
Chrome ore stockpile ready for distribution—China National Minerals Co., Ltd. secures consistent imports to support China’s stainless steel and ferroalloy production.
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- Chrome ore (metallurgical and foundry grades)
- Manganese ore and concentrates
- Copper, cobalt, and lead-zinc ores (via CNMC overseas mines)
Contact Information
Website: https://www.cnmc.com.cn/
Phone: +86 10 8442 8888 (CNMC Group HQ)
9. CMOC Group Limited
CMOC Overview
CMOC Group Limited (formerly China Molybdenum Co., Ltd.) is a key player in China’s chrome and specialty metals supply chain, with mining and trading operations spanning multiple continents. Although best known for molybdenum, copper, and cobalt, CMOC also imports chrome ore to support its alloy-focused subsidiaries and long-term industrial clients. Its global mining assets and advanced logistics give it an edge in ensuring supply stability for China’s critical materials sectors.
Mission Statement
CMOC is committed to securing strategic mineral resources worldwide to meet China’s long-term industrial, energy, and technological development needs.
Recent Achievements
Strategic Cooperation Agreement Signed Between JCHX and CMOC
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- Increased procurement of chrome ore from South Africa for internal alloy production in 2024
- Expanded trading partnerships with ferroalloy processors across Jiangsu and Henan
- Deployed blockchain tracking for select mineral shipments to improve traceability
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore (UG2 and metallurgical-grade)
- Molybdenum concentrates and oxides
- Copper and cobalt (from DRC and Brazil)
- By-products: niobium, phosphate, rare earth elements
Contact Information
Website: https://en.cmoc.com
Phone: +86 379 6865 8017
8. Shougang International Trade Co., Ltd
Shougang International Overview
Shougang International Trade Co., Ltd., the trading arm of state-owned Shougang Group, is a key player in China’s chrome ore import ecosystem. As part of one of China’s top steelmakers, the company ensures a consistent supply of chrome ore and ferroalloy materials to feed Shougang’s stainless and special steel production. Leveraging long-term supplier relationships in South Africa and Turkey, Shougang International plays a strategic role in securing alloy-grade raw materials for domestic use.
Mission Statement
To support Shougang Group’s steelmaking operations through secure, stable sourcing of chrome ore and critical ferroalloys from global partners.
The Shougang Industrial Park in Beijing—home to Shougang Group’s revitalized steel facilities and the iconic Big Air venue from the 2022 Winter Olympics—symbolizes the group’s transition from traditional manufacturing to modern industrial innovation.
Recent Achievements
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- Strengthened partnerships with chrome suppliers in South Africa
- Optimized bulk logistics for ore shipments through Tianjin Port
- Enhanced supplier vetting protocols to ensure ore consistency and compliance
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore (lumpy and concentrate)
- Ferrochrome alloys
- Manganese and nickel ores (secondary materials)
Contact Information
Website: www.shougang.com.cn/en/p1/InternationalBusiness/20170329/859.html
Phone: +86 10 8829 6114 (Head office general line — for Shougang Group)
7. Hailiang Group
Hailiang Group Overview
Hailiang Group, a diversified industrial conglomerate headquartered in Zhejiang Province, is a rising force in China’s non-ferrous metal trade. Through its subsidiary Zhejiang Hailiang International Trade Co., Ltd., the company is an active importer of chrome ore, alongside copper, aluminum, and nickel. While chrome is not its core commodity, Hailiang’s robust international logistics network and strong financial footing allow it to maintain a steady foothold in the chrome ore market, particularly in support of domestic alloy and stainless steel clients.
Leveraging a global sourcing strategy and a vertically integrated supply chain, Hailiang supplements China’s demand for strategic raw materials through stable, mid-volume imports from Africa and Southeast Asia.
Mission Statement
To build a world-class integrated supply chain for non-ferrous metals that supports China’s industrial development and international trade goals.
Hailiang Group at a global metals expo—showcasing its growing role in chrome and non-ferrous metal imports
Recent Achievements
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- Expanded trading volume in bulk minerals, including chrome ore, in 2024
- Strengthened long-term partnerships with chrome suppliers in South Africa and Oman
- Digitized warehousing and customs operations at Ningbo and Shanghai ports
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore (lumpy & concentrates)
- Refined copper and copper rods
- Nickel, aluminum ingots, and alloys
Contact Information
Website: https://www.hailiang.com/en/
Phone: +86 575 8766 8888
6. Taiyuan Iron & Steel Group International Economic and Trade Co., Ltd.
TISCO International Overview
Taiyuan Iron & Steel Group International Economic and Trade Co., Ltd. (TISCO International) is the global trading arm of TISCO, one of China’s largest and most technologically advanced stainless steel producers. As part of the Baowu Steel Group, TISCO International plays a strategic role in securing the group’s raw material supply chain—especially in chrome ore, essential for stainless steel production. The company sources chrome ore globally, primarily from South Africa, to feed the alloy production needs of its parent group’s large-scale smelting operations.
By integrating international procurement, logistics, and finance, TISCO International ensures a stable inflow of key alloying materials that support China’s stainless steel industry at scale.
Mission Statement
TISCO International is committed to securing high-quality, sustainable mineral resources to support advanced stainless steel production and national industrial development.
Recent Achievements
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- Strengthened chrome ore procurement channels in Southern Africa
- Expanded digital supply chain tracking for improved shipment efficiency
- Supported Baowu Group’s push for low-carbon stainless steel initiatives
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore (lumpy and concentrate)
- Ferrochrome alloys
- Nickel, manganese, and other steelmaking inputs
- Stainless steel semi-finished products for export
Contact Information
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- Website: http://en.tisco.com.cn/
- Phone: +86 351 213 2815 (Head Office, Taiyuan)
5. Jinchuan Group
Jinchuan Group Overview
Jinchuan Group, one of China’s top non-ferrous metal producers, is a key player in both chrome ore imports and domestic ferroalloy production. Headquartered in Gansu Province and listed via its international arm Jinchuan International, the company operates a fully integrated supply chain spanning mining, smelting, and alloy manufacturing. Its chrome ore imports help fuel its stainless steel and special alloy production, particularly in support of China’s high-end manufacturing and energy sectors.
Mission Statement
Jinchuan aims to secure critical mineral resources and deliver high-purity metal products to support China’s industrial advancement and global competitiveness.
Recent Achievements
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- Expanded chrome ore procurement partnerships in South Africa and Zimbabwe
- Increased domestic ferrochrome output by 15% in 2024
- Invested in low-carbon smelting technology for alloy refining
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore concentrates
- Ferrochrome alloys
- Nickel, cobalt, and copper products
- By-products: platinum group metals, sulfuric acid
Contact Information
Website: www.jinchuan-intl.com
Phone: +86 931 887 1717
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4. China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group (CNMC)
CNMC Overview
China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group Co., Ltd. (CNMC) is a central SOE under the direct management of China’s State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC). It operates across the full industrial chain of nonferrous metals — including mining, smelting, engineering, and international trade. As a key importer of chrome ore, CNMC plays a crucial role in securing strategic raw materials to support China’s alloy and stainless steel industries. Its trade division sources chrome ore to meet both internal consumption and the broader market demand across Asia.
With a global presence in over 20 countries — including major mining projects in Zambia, Laos, and Myanmar — CNMC maintains stable chrome ore flows through long-term partnerships with suppliers in Africa and Central Asia. Its integrated business model enables tight control over logistics, pricing, and supply security.
Mission Statement
CNMC is committed to securing and developing global nonferrous resources to support China’s industrial growth and international cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
CNMC field team at one of the group’s overseas mining sites—supporting China’s strategic chrome ore supply chain.
Recent Achievements
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- Launched joint chrome ore procurement platform with affiliated smelters (2024)
- Strengthened trade routes linking South Africa to southern Chinese ports
- Advanced digital traceability system for imported ore batches
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore concentrates
- Ferrochrome (via affiliates)
- Other products: copper, zinc, lead, cobalt, rare earths
Contact Information
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- Website: https://www.cnmcl.net/en/
- Phone: +86 10 8442 6172
3. Tsingshan Holdings Group
Tsingshan Overview
Tsingshan Holdings Group, China’s largest privately owned stainless steel producer, is also a major importer of chrome ore. Through subsidiaries like Xinyitong Steel and overseas mining operations in Zimbabwe and Indonesia, Tsingshan maintains tight control over its supply chain from mine to melt shop. Its integrated model supports massive domestic alloy production while reducing reliance on volatile spot markets.
By combining mining, logistics, and smelting under one roof, Tsingshan has become a central force in China’s chrome supply landscape, consistently ranking among the country’s top importers.
Mission Statement
Tsingshan aims to lead global stainless steel innovation through vertical integration, stable raw material sourcing, and overseas resource development.
Tsingshan Holdings signs a strategic chrome development deal with the Zimbabwean government — reinforcing its vertically integrated supply chain from mine to melt shop.
Recent Achievements
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- Launched new ferrochrome plant in Zimbabwe in 2023
- Integrated port-side logistics and warehousing in Ningbo
- Secured long-term chrome ore contracts from South Africa
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore (lump and concentrate)
- High-carbon ferrochrome
- Stainless steel billets and coils
- Nickel pig iron (NPI)
Contact Information
Website: https://www.xytsteelgroup.com
Phone: +86 571 8717 1701
2. Sinosteel Corporation
Sinosteel Overview
Sinosteel Corporation, a centrally administered state-owned enterprise (SOE), is one of China’s most influential chrome ore importers and a key player in the global metallurgical supply chain. With decades of experience in mineral resources development, Sinosteel imports chrome ore at scale to feed China’s ferrochrome and stainless steel industries. The company also manages overseas mining operations and engineering projects, especially in Africa and Australia, securing long-term access to strategic raw materials.
Mission Statement
Sinosteel aims to ensure national metallurgical security by integrating global resource development with domestic steel industry needs.
Sinosteel Corporation signs international ore supply agreement—bolstering its role in China’s strategic sourcing of chrome and allied minerals.
Recent Achievements
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- Expanded long-term chrome ore procurement agreements with South African producers
- Launched digitalized inventory and customs clearance system for imported ores
- Strengthened JV partnerships with domestic ferrochrome smelters
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore (lumpy & concentrate)
- Ferrochrome and alloy feedstock
- Related products: manganese ore, nickel ore
Contact Information
Website: http://www.sinosteelgroup.com/
Phone: +86 10 6268 8888
1. China Minmetals Corporation
China Minmetals Overview
China Minmetals Corporation, a central state-owned enterprise under the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC), is one of the world’s largest metals and minerals traders. As a key player in China’s chrome ore supply chain, Minmetals acts both as an importer and a global resource developer. Its chrome ore imports support domestic alloy and stainless steel manufacturers, while its international investments ensure long-term resource security for China’s industrial base.
Mission Statement
Minmetals is committed to securing China’s strategic metal reserves through global resource development, stable import channels, and sustainable supply chain integration.
Recent Achievements
China Minmetals Corporation secures long-term raw material contracts—reinforcing its leadership in sourcing nonferrous metals like chrome ore.
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- Strengthened chrome ore sourcing partnerships in South Africa and Turkey
- Expanded global trading footprint through Minmetals Development Co., Ltd.
- Upgraded digital tracking system for real-time shipment monitoring
Detailed Product Overview
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- Chrome ore (lumpy and concentrate)
- Ferrochrome
- Other imports: copper, aluminum, iron ore, and rare earths
Contact Information
Website: http://www.minmetals.com/english/
Phone: +86 10 5986 8888
Who buys chrome ore?
In China, chrome ore is primarily purchased by large steel producers, ferroalloy manufacturers, and trading companies. Major buyers include state-owned enterprises like China Minmetals and Sinosteel, as well as private giants such as Tsingshan Group. These companies import chrome ore to produce ferrochrome, a key alloy used in stainless steel production.
Why is chrome ore imported to China?
China imports chrome ore because it lacks sufficient domestic reserves to meet the demands of its massive stainless steel and ferrochrome industries. As the world’s largest producer of stainless steel, China relies on steady imports—mainly from South Africa, Turkey, and Zimbabwe—to supply key alloy manufacturers and steel producers across the country.
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What is chrome used for in China?
In China, chrome is primarily used to produce ferrochrome, an essential alloying element in the manufacture of stainless steel. It enhances strength, corrosion resistance, and durability in industrial and consumer-grade steel products. Chrome is also used in refractory materials, plating, and various chemical applications, supporting sectors like construction, automotive, and manufacturing.
Conclusion
Bulk inventory of seamless and welded steel pipes ready for global sourcing through Camasteel.
These top 10 chrome ore importers are not only key players in China’s domestic ferroalloy and stainless steel sectors—they also influence global supply chains by shaping pricing, demand, and trade flows for chrome and related raw materials. From state-owned giants to vertically integrated steelmakers, each of these companies plays a vital role in supporting China’s industrial strength and driving global metallurgical trends.
Ready to tap into this network? Contact CAMAL’s procurement team today to start sourcing chrome ore, mining machinery, or metallurgical products from trusted suppliers in China. With dedicated subsidiaries like Camasteel and decades of experience in the metals and mining sectors, CAMAL is here to simplify your supply chain and give your business a competitive edge.
Looking to add steel products to your sourcing strategy? Visit Camasteel, our subsidiary offering direct online procurement of steel, rebar, seamless pipe and more. Explore our seamless steel pipe offerings here to streamline your sourcing process further.
CAMAL’s Expertise in Chrome Ore Sourcing
Normal text: At CAMAL Group, we bring over a decade of international sourcing experience to the chrome ore trade—connecting global buyers with China’s top importers, traders, and alloy producers. Whether you’re sourcing from South Africa, Turkey, or Zimbabwe, we help navigate the complexities of chrome procurement by leveraging deep relationships with China’s leading chrome ore buyers—including SOEs, steel manufacturers, and specialized alloy companies.
We’ve successfully facilitated shipments of high-grade chrome concentrates (~44% Cr₂O₃) with full mine-to-port traceability—see a case study here.
More than just agents — CAMAL is your trusted sourcing ally in China
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- CAMAL brings deep expertise in China’s iron, steel, and chrome ore industries, helping clients navigate complex supply chains with confidence.
- We connect you with reliable suppliers—whether you’re sourcing from major state-owned enterprises or specialized private manufacturers.
- Our dedicated subsidiary, Camasteel, offers end-to-end procurement solutions that streamline your buying process.
- Camasteel enforces strict quality control standards to ensure your materials meet exact specifications.
- From product selection to after-sales service, our team manages every step for a smooth, hassle-free experience.
- Our bilingual staff eliminate communication barriers, ensuring accuracy and transparency from inquiry to delivery.
How can CAMAL help you manage your China Sourcing?
✅ Do you spend too much time finding the right manufacturers in China?
✅Do you face difficulties in communicating your requirements to suppliers in China?
✅ Do your products often need customization just for you?
✅ Do you wish someone could help you with end-to-end procurement, so you can focus on growing your business?
If your answer is YES, Reduce Your China Sourcing Headaches, WhatsApp Us (Faster) or Email Us Now for a FREE Consultation
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Sourcing Chrome Ore from China
