The Australian Steel Institute (ASI) has issued an urgent warning over a rapid surge in fabricated structural steel imports, stating that the influx is causing serious injury to Australia’s domestic fabrication sector.
The institute reports that the sharp rise in imports is disrupting supply chains, intensifying price competition, and threatening the viability of local fabricators.
To address the issue, the ASI has filed a formal safeguard application calling for:
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A tariff rate quota (TRQ) based on pre-surge import levels
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A 50% tariff on all structural-steel imports exceeding that quota
According to the ASI, such emergency measures are critical to stabilize the market and prevent further damage while an investigation proceeds.
If the Minister for Industry supports the request, the case will move to the Treasurer for approval. A full investigation would then be carried out by the Productivity Commission, which would examine evidence, assess injury claims, and submit recommendations.
With domestic operations at risk, the ASI is urging maximum urgency across all stages of the safeguard process.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group
