UAE warns of surge in steel imports, Emsteel introduces countermeasures

Share:

Amidst intensifying global trade frictions, international steel flows are undergoing significant shifts.KR R/D70 steel Gulf countries, with their vast project construction potential, are gradually becoming a dumping ground for excess global steel. The UAE has also recently felt the pressure from imported steel sections, and Emirates Steel, a major local supplier, has proactively implemented various measures to maintain market stability.

Mysteel has learned that Emirates Steel has expressed concern about a surge in steel section imports, primarily from China, stating that "this surge has put severe downward pressure on local prices, disrupted the market structure, and threatened the long-term sustainability of the local industry." Data shows that from January to May 2025, the UAE's total imports of steel sections under HS code 7216 surged 87.2% year-on-year to 228,900 tons.KR R/D70 steel China accounted for 66% of this, with exports reaching 151,200 tons, a year-on-year increase of 145.7%. Bahrain and Turkey were the second and third largest suppliers, respectively, exporting 36,900 tons and 27,700 tons to the UAE, representing significant year-on-year increases of 389% and 90%.

To address these challenges, Emirates Steel has introduced a Temporary Import Substitution Discount (TIDD) with both short-term intervention and long-term regulatory implications. The discount aims to offset the impact of unfair imports through a price mechanism and strengthen support for local sourcing. The company explained, "This discount will be applied to eligible local steel section orders, with the specific amount dynamically adjusted based on the customer's import volume as reported in official trade statistics—the higher the customer's import volume, the lower the discount."

Emirates Steel is also considering applying for trade protection measures. To this end, the company has hired a specialized international trade law firm to conduct legal and economic assessments. An industry insider stated, "Protectionism is intensifying globally, challenging free trade." Another source added, "Isolationist policies are spreading globally, and the UAE is not immune.KR R/D70 steel A closed-off 'one country, one steel mill' model may emerge in the future, and import restrictions may only be a matter of time."

As the global steel trade landscape continues to evolve, the UAE, as a major steel consumer in the Middle East, deserves continued attention for its strategy of balancing open markets and protecting local industries.

  • Source: Abstract
  • Editor: Shirley

If necessary, please leave your message, we will contact you as soon as possible, thank you!

Name:
Email:
Tel:
Message: