Tata Steel UK’s Request Spurs Trade Remedies Authority Review
The UK government has lifted safeguard measures on imports of cold-rolled flat products (category 2), following a recommendation by the Trade Remedies Authority (TRA). The decision, approved by the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, exempts these imports from quotas, signaling a shift in the UK’s trade policy on steel products.
The review, initiated in November 2024 at the request of Tata Steel UK, addressed changes in market conditions since the original safeguard measures were introduced. Tata Steel UK, the sole domestic producer of cold-rolled steel, argued that maintaining the safeguard was unlikely to harm the UK market significantly.
Investigation Findings
The TRA’s investigation covered the period from January 1 to October 21, 2024, focusing on products classified under various HS codes, including 72091690 and 72092500. Stakeholders had the opportunity to comment on the recommendation, which gained widespread support. It was noted that continuing the safeguard could result in higher costs for downstream consumers in industries such as automotive manufacturing and household appliances.
Industry Implications
Despite lifting the safeguard measures, the UK’s anti-dumping duties on cold-rolled flat products from Russia and China remain intact. This dual approach aims to balance the need for open markets with protection against unfair trade practices.
In mid-2024, British traders advocated for excluding cold-rolled coils from safeguard measures, citing Tata Steel UK’s focus on producing these coils exclusively for its galvanizing lines as part of its decarbonization strategy. This change aligns with broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the steel industry while ensuring adequate supply for domestic industries reliant on cold-rolled products.
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