A South African government trade body has proposed the introduction of import duties starting at 10% to protect the country’s struggling steel industry from a surge in imports.
The International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) released its preliminary findings following a government-mandated review of steel tariffs launched in March 2025. The review was prompted by oversupply, weak domestic demand, and high input costs affecting South Africa’s steel sector.
ITAC recommended that the government take emergency measures under World Trade Organization (WTO) provisions to safeguard the industry, proposing import duties beginning at 10% on steel products.
Imports currently account for approximately 35% of total domestic consumption, placing companies such as ArcelorMittal South Africa the nation’s largest primary steel producer at risk of collapse and threatening thousands of jobs.
In its initial report, ITAC stated that “the ongoing geopolitical landscape does constitute an unprecedented emergency, necessitating urgent action in terms of Article 19 and Article 21 of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.”
These WTO provisions allow member states to suspend or withdraw tariff concessions if a product is being imported in such increased quantities and under conditions that cause or threaten serious harm to domestic producers.
ITAC urged policymakers to assess whether current trade conditions meet the criteria for an emergency under WTO rules.
Chief Commissioner Ayabonga Cawe noted that recent steel import restrictions imposed by the European Union and the United Kingdom have raised concerns about dumping and market diversion affecting South Africa.
Cawe also cited the impact of tariffs introduced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which have compounded the challenges facing South Africa’s steel industry.
The commission, which is responsible for conducting tariff investigations, recommending trade remedies, and overseeing import and export controls, emphasised that its findings remain provisional. A final decision will be made after reviewing public feedback over the next two weeks.
In a public notice, ITAC confirmed it had received over 150 submissions, including requests for increased duties, the establishment of rebate provisions, and the inclusion of specific products under import control.