The UK government plans to raise import tariffs on steel by up to 50 percent as part of a broader strategy aimed at supporting the domestic steel industry, according to a report by the American publication Politico.
It is expected that the planned measures will include a reduction in import quotas along with higher duties on volumes exceeding these limits, which will bring the UK more fully in line with existing policies in the EU and the United States.
The tariff move is expected to form part of the government's upcoming strategy for the steel sector, which officials say will outline measures to ensure the long-term future of domestic steel production.
A government spokesman said the UK remains committed to ensuring a sustainable future for steel production and jobs, with more details to be announced along with the strategy.
Industry under import and cost pressure
The UK steel sector faces significant challenges, including high energy costs, intense competition from cheaper imports, especially from China, and broader global overcapacity pressures. These factors contributed to financial strain throughout the industry, with major manufacturers affected. Recent events highlight the pressure on the sector. Tata Steel has already closed two blast furnaces at its Port Talbot site, while the UK government intervened earlier to take control of the British Steel plant in Scunthorpe to prevent it from shutting down.
