Global steel production rose 6.6 percent in October compared to output a year ago, with China -- the world's biggest producer -- outpacing overall growth, World Steel Association data showed on Wednesday.

The evolution of steel production is a key indicator of activity in the industrial sector.

Leading producer China recorded a growth of 9.2 percent in October to 65.1 million tonnes, while Japan's production was up 7.7 percent to 9.5 million tonnes. US production jumped 8.7 percent to 7.4 million tonnes, and in the European Union, production was up 4.0 percent.

Germany, the biggest producer in the European Union, recorded a rise of 1.9 percent, while Spain showed a jump of 23.9 percent and Britain 17.9 percent. Italy, the bloc's second-biggest producer, however posted a fall 10.1 percent while France's, the EU's third largest, slid 1.8 percent.