China Steel Corporation (CSC) maintained flat wire rod pricing for the fourth quarter, ending two consecutive quarters of increases despite rising metallurgical coal expenses and production costs, Yieh Steel News reports.

The decision reflects producers’ consideration for downstream challenges amid labor shortages and geopolitical conflicts, according to Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute chairman Yung-Yu Tsai.

Taiwan’s fastener export volume and value have declined since President Donald Trump surprised the top supplier of imported fasteners to the U.S. with 50% tariffs on fasteners in 2025.

Taiwan fastener exports to the U.S. fell 14.8% to 252,275 tons during the first six months of 2026. June shipments dropped to 40,270 tons, down by 9.8% from May, which fell 11.5% from April, and 14.6% from June of the previous year.

Recent trends show a contraction in volume even as year-over-year pricing remained higher.