South Africa has increased import duties on selected steel products in a move aimed at protecting its struggling domestic steel industry from rising foreign competition and weak demand conditions.
The new tariff measures raise duties on certain steel categories to between 10 percent and 30 percent, depending on the product type. The decision follows recommendations from the International Trade Administration Commission, which has been reviewing pressure on the local steel sector.
The industry has been under strain due to weak domestic consumption, high production costs and a steady rise in cheaper imports, particularly from Asia. Imports now account for about 36 percent of total steel consumption in the country, placing further pressure on local producers.
Major firms such as ArcelorMittal South Africa have already scaled back operations or shut some facilities as profitability declines, raising concerns about jobs and industrial capacity.
The new duties cover a range of products including flat-rolled steel, bars, rods, tubes and pipes. Previously, tariffs on these items were significantly lower, in some cases ranging from zero to 15 percent.
Trade officials say the adjustments are intended to give domestic producers breathing space to stabilise operations and invest in upgrading equipment and efficiency. The government has also indicated that tariff rebates will be adjusted to balance protection for local producers with the needs of industries that rely on imported steel inputs.
Imports from major suppliers, particularly China, have been a key concern for policymakers as global steel overcapacity continues to put downward pressure on prices. Industry bodies argue that without intervention, local production capacity could shrink further, increasing reliance on imports.
The move places South Africa alongside other major economies that have recently tightened trade measures in the steel sector in response to global oversupply and industrial slowdown pressures.
Officials say the policy will remain under review as the government continues to balance industrial protection with broader trade competitiveness and downstream manufacturing needs.
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Emmanuel Abara Benson is a business journalist and editor covering artificial intelligence, global markets, and emerging technology.
He has previously worked with Business Insider Africa and Nairametrics, reporting on finance, startups, and innovation.
His work focuses on AI, digital economy, and global tech trends.
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