Indian steel producers are actively lobbying the government to implement additional safeguard duties ranging from 8% to 12% on all incoming steel shipments. A primary focus of this initiative is to curb the increasing volume of steel imports originating from China. This proposed measure seeks to augment the current safeguard duty structure, which was initially set at 12% from April 21, 2025. This existing duty is scheduled to progressively reduce to 11.5% in its second year and 11% in its third year, ultimately expiring on April 20, 2028.
For freight forwarders and logistics professionals, such a policy change could significantly impact the volume and cost of steel imports into India. Increased duties would likely lead to higher landed costs for imported steel, potentially shifting demand towards domestic production. This might result in reduced ocean freight volumes for steel products on routes to India, particularly from China. Forwarders handling these commodities would need to monitor the legislative progress closely to advise shippers on potential tariff impacts and adjust sourcing strategies accordingly. It could also lead to a temporary surge in imports ahead of any new duty implementation as buyers try to beat the tariffs.
