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India at Risk of Steel, Aluminium Dumping as US Tariffs Hit

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Business 04 Apr 2025 03:15 PM IST Economic Times

·  India could see a spike in low-cost steel and aluminium imports.

·  Domestic players may suffer pricing and capacity pressure.

·  Govt may enforce QCO, duties to guard against unfair trade practices.

India could face a surge in steel and aluminium imports after the United States imposed fresh tariffs of up to 26% on Chinese and Indian metal exports. The move, aimed at protecting American producers, may reroute surplus inventory to alternative markets like India. Experts warn this could lead to “dumping” — where exporting countries offload excess products at lower-than-market prices — adversely impacting India’s domestic industry.

The US tariffs, largely targeting strategic sectors under national security concerns, are part of a broader policy to reduce reliance on foreign metals. India, though not the primary target, is expected to feel ripple effects as global trade flows adjust. With limited access to the US, countries such as China, Vietnam, and even Russia may shift focus toward India’s growing market.

Industry associations in India have called for immediate government intervention, including safeguard duties, tighter quality controls, and policy reviews. There are also concerns that such dumping could pressure prices, disrupt domestic manufacturers, and undermine India’s push for self-reliance in core sectors.

The Ministry of Commerce and the Steel Ministry are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. The Centre is also assessing potential protective measures, including enhancing the scope of the Quality Control Orders (QCO) to prevent substandard imports.