[Ferro-Alloys.com] China saw surging commodity imports in the first quarter of this year, according to the General Administration of Customs.

The country imported 283 million metric tons of iron ore, up 8 percent on a yearly basis between January and March, while its crude oil and natural gas imports grew respectively by 9.5 percent and 19.6 percent year-on-year to 139 million tons and 29.39 million tons.

Meanwhile, China's imports of soybeans grew by 19 percent on a yearly basis to 21.18 million tons. The imports of corn and wheat surged by 437.8 percent and 131.2 percent year-on-year to 6.73 million tons and 2.93 million tons, respectively.

China's railways sent 920 million tons of cargo in the first quarter of this year, an increase of 12 percent year-on-year, The Paper reported on Friday.

The country's railways expanded transportation capacity, ensured transport of key materials, strengthened international cooperation and improved service efficiency and quality in Q1 this year, according to China Railway.

Click here for more information: Ferrosilicon Daily Express 4.14