BS EDIT: Why steel sector is seeking tariff support

By Business StandardPublished On Sep 11, 2024

China's economic shift

China’s rebalancing away from investment has led to reduced demand for commodities, affecting global markets, including steel

Commodity prices fall

Iron ore and steel prices have dropped sharply in 2024, with iron ore over 30% cheaper and steel prices down by a quarter

Impact on Indian steel

India, the second-largest steel producer, plans to boost production to 300 mt by 2030 but faces challenges due to the global price drop

Excess Chinese supply

China’s oversupply is flooding global markets, adding pressure on Indian steel producers, who rely on coal imports for production

Call for tariff protection

Indian steel producers are seeking govt intervention through tariffs to protect margins and support capacity expansion plans

Govt role

The govt must balance avoiding rent-seeking with recognising the pressures caused by Chinese overcapacity in global markets