India is actively discussing measures to manage rising steel imports, as stated by Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy. The minister highlighted that despite robust domestic demand, the surge in imports poses significant challenges for local steelmakers.

Key Points:

Current Import Trends: India, the second-largest producer of crude steel, has been a net importer throughout the fiscal year ending March 2024 and continued this trend from April to July.

Top Exporters: China emerged as the largest steel exporter to India during this period, followed by Japan and South Korea.

Impact on Prices: The influx of imports has contributed to a decline in local steel prices, which have reached their lowest levels in over three years, according to data from BigMint.

Government Response: Kumaraswamy indicated that the ministry aims to persuade the finance ministry to increase tariffs on steel imports to safeguard domestic manufacturers from cheaper imports, particularly from China.

Anti-Dumping Measures: In August, India launched an anti-dumping investigation on specific steel products imported from Vietnam, responding to concerns from leading steel producers like JSW Steel and ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel.

Conclusion: The Indian government is taking proactive steps to protect its steel industry amid rising imports, ensuring the sustainability of local production.