Citing strong domestic demand and concerns over the quality of locally produced coke, the Indian Steel Ministry has opposed the idea of imposing a cap on imports of low-ash metallurgical coke, a key component in steel production. This position comes despite complaints from domestic producers about increased imports since the 2019/20 fiscal year.
In April, India's Directorate General for Trade Remedies (DGTR) recommended capping imports at 2.85 million metric tons for the year. The final decision, however, rests with the Commerce Ministry, which has yet to comment on the issue.
Major suppliers of metallurgical coke to India include China, Indonesia, and Poland. Over the last four years, India's imports of low-ash metallurgical coke have increased by more than 61%. The Steel Ministry argues that domestic producers are unable to fully meet demand, especially in terms of quality.
An authorized source warned that restricting imports could disrupt supply chains and increase costs, adversely affecting small steel mills.
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