Cairo: EgyPulse – News Desk
The Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade introduced temporary protection measures, effective September 14, targeting specific steel imports in a recent bid to bolster the local market after several complaints. “The steel sector is fundamental to numerous key industries,” the minister noted, adding that the state is committed to maintaining fair market conditions. The ministry said the safeguard duties are a response to petitions from domestic manufacturers who have suffered due to rising import competition.
The decision, enacted through three ministerial decrees issued by Minister Hassan El-Khatib, imposes safeguard duties on a range of steel products for a period of 200 days, and are designed to shield Egypt’s domestic steel industry from what the government describes as “harmful international trade practices” and excessive global supply pressures.
The temporary tariffs apply to various steel categories, including hot-rolled and cold-rolled flat products, galvanized and color-coated sheets, as well as semi-finished steel (billet). The rates vary by product, with hot-rolled flat steel facing a 13.6% charge (or a minimum of LE 3,673 per ton), while billet imports will be subject to a 16.2% duty (minimum LE 4,613 per ton). Minister El-Khatib emphasized that the decision aligns with both international trade regulations and national economic protection laws, specifically citing Egypt’s commitments under the World Trade Organization and Law No. 161 of 1998.
Although the investigation into these trade practices is set to continue for up to 12 months, the imposition of temporary duties effectively accelerates the timeline, requiring authorities to finalize their findings within the 200-day window. All stakeholders will be granted an opportunity to present their positions before a final ruling is made.
Egypt’s action comes amid a global trend of increased protectionism, as steel producers worldwide grapple with surplus output and competitive pricing. Officials say the new duties aim not only to protect domestic market share but also to give local producers breathing room to scale up production and enhance export capabilities.
