What specific tariff increases did South Africa's ITAC propose for steel imports, and which product categories are affected?

The International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) proposed a 10% duty on nearly 20 flat-rolled and bar steel products currently untariffed; raised duties on over 40 classes of tubes, pipes, fencing, and bolts from 10% to 15%; and introduced a 20% tariff on various tools and knives. It also proposed rebate provisions for certain flat-rolled products to support downstream manufacturers and import controls for more than 20 items, including corrugated roof sheeting, tanks, and reservoirs.

What reasons did ITAC give for treating the domestic steel industry as being in an 'unprecedented emergency'?

ITAC cited a flood of low-priced steel imports from markets such as China and India, widespread circumvention of import duties, customs fraud, misdeclaration, under-invoicing, and geopolitical tensions—all of which are causing 'significant strain to an already struggling domestic steel manufacturing industry.'

South Africa Plans Steel-Duty Hikes to Stem Industry 'Emergency'

May 19, 2026

South African trade authorities proposed tariff increases on steel imports to protect the domestic industry from low-priced foreign products. The proposal includes duties up to 20% to address supply chain strains affecting manufacturers like ArcelorMittal.

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