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FIMI:30% Export Duty Will Hurt Karnataka’s Iron Ore and Steel Sectorsv

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India 16 Sep 2025 11:11 AM IST The Hindu BusinessLine

The Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) has raised concerns that the government’s proposed 30% export duty on low-grade iron ore will severely impact Karnataka’s mining and steel sectors. According to the industry body, the move could discourage exports, reduce revenues for miners, and disrupt the already fragile balance between mining and steel production in the state.

Karnataka, one of India’s leading iron ore-producing regions, relies heavily on both domestic consumption and exports to sustain its mining economy. FIMI warned that additional levies will make exports unviable, leaving a surplus of low-grade ore with limited domestic demand. This could hurt miners financially while not significantly benefiting steelmakers, who prefer higher-grade ore for efficiency.

Industry representatives argue that the duty may also discourage new investments in the sector, affecting jobs and economic activity in mining-dependent regions. While the government’s aim is to secure raw material for domestic steel expansion, FIMI stressed that policies should strike a balance between supporting steelmakers and protecting the mining ecosystem.