India Emerges as Net Exporter of Steel Amid New Tariffs
India's imposition of a 12% safeguard duty on steel imports has led to the country becoming a net exporter in the first nine months of FY2026. Steel exports surged by 33.3% year-over-year, reaching 4.8 million metric tons.
Insights:
India has shifted its position in the global steel market, emerging as a net exporter of finished steel in the first nine months of FY2026. This remarkable transition saw India export 4.8 million metric tons of finished steel, a 33.3% increase compared to the same period the previous year, while importing 4.65 million metric tons. The shift follows the Indian government's imposition of a 12% safeguard duty on steel imports in December 2025, primarily targeting cheaper shipments from China 
CN.
CN.The safeguard duty, set to decrease to 11.5% in the second year and 11% in the third, reflects India's strategic approach to protecting its domestic steel industry while enhancing export competitiveness. This policy has significantly impacted the market dynamics, with leading Indian steelmakers such as Steel Authority of India Limited , JSW Steel Limited , and Tata Steel Limited responding by raising prices. In January 2026, prices for hot-rolled coils and cold-rolled coils increased by up to 2,000 rupees per metric ton, signaling producer confidence bolstered by tariff protection.
