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India Considers ‘Safeguard Duty’ to Control Steel Imports

Indonesia’s steel consumption is around 17 mt.

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India is exploring the implementation of safeguard duties to curb the influx of steel at low or zero tariffs under the free trade agreement (FTA) with the ASEAN region. This move comes as Chinese companies expand their steel manufacturing capacities in ASEAN countries.
Discussions are underway between the steel and commerce ministries, ahead of the next India-ASEAN FTA review talks scheduled for February. Industry experts report that Chinese firms are adding approximately 97 million tonnes (mt) of blast furnace-basic oxygen furnace (BF-BOF) capacity in ASEAN, expected to be operational within the next 5-6 years.
With annual steel consumption in ASEAN at around 75 mt, there are concerns that the surplus production could be redirected to India due to the tariff advantages under the India-ASEAN FTA. “Discussions are ongoing, and measures like imposing a safeguard duty are being considered,” a senior government official said.
Alok Sahay, Secretary General of the Indian Steel Association, noted that the influx of 97 mt of new BF-BOF capacity in ASEAN countries poses a threat to Indian steel producers. “Given the current FTA and the limited growth in ASEAN’s consumption, these new capacities are mainly for export. India’s low-to-zero tariffs make it an attractive market compared to the EU or the US,” Sahay added.
The South East Asia Iron and Steel Institute (SEASI) projects that the region’s steel production capacity will reach 145 mt by 2026. Praful Venugopal, CEO of Mittal Steel Indonesia, mentioned that Chinese producers have signed agreements with Indonesia to set up plants that will contribute an additional 20 mt of capacity. Indonesia’s steel consumption is around 17 mt, and these new plants are designed to supply exports.
The anticipated oversupply from ASEAN could lead to depressed domestic steel prices in India, where production in FY24 was 139 mt, just slightly above consumption of 136 mt.
(ET)

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Cement demand to rise 7% in FY26

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India’s cement demand is projected to grow 6.5–7.5 per cent in FY26, supported by a ~10 per cent increase in central infrastructure spending and prospects of a strong monsoon, which could boost rural housing. In FY25, demand had moderated to 4.5–5.5 per cent due to electionled disruptions, sluggish project execution, and weak real estate activity. Infrastructure will remain the key demand driver, contributing ~30 per cent of total cement consumption— led by roads, railways, irrigation, and urban development. Notably, 12 major states have raised their budget allocations by 11 per cent, fuelling optimism. Rural housing (32–34 per cent share) is expected to gain from rising farm incomes, PMGSY, MNREGA, and higher average rural wages. Urban housing is likely to recover on a low base, improved pace under PMAY-Urban, and interest rate cuts.

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World’s First Book on Carbon Steel Sourcing Launched by Hero Steels CEO

Panckaj N Umrania’s book offers strategic insights into steel sourcing.

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The global steel industry marked a milestone with the launch of “Mastering Carbon Steel Sourcing: From Domestic Suppliers to Global Partnerships,” the world’s first book on carbon steel sourcing. Authored by Panckaj N Umrania, Executive Director of KND Steel, the book was unveiled by Jitendra Sharma, ED & CEO of Hero Steels Ltd.
The event saw participation from industry leaders, policymakers, and representatives from JBM Group, Havells India, Philips Lighting India, Air India, and Northern Railways, underscoring its industry relevance.
Published by Academic Foundation India, the book serves as a guide for business leaders and sourcing professionals, covering supply chain optimisation, quality control, and cost management. It also highlights India’s growing role in global steel sourcing.
Speaking at the launch, Umrania stated, “This book addresses key sourcing challenges and provides practical solutions to help businesses enhance profitability.”
The event concluded with a panel discussion on the future of steel sourcing and supply chain innovation, reinforcing the book’s significance in transforming global sourcing strategies.
                     

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Viva ACP Unveils Bricklyn: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

The new ACP series blends classic brick aesthetics with modern engineering.

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Viva ACP, Asia’s largest aluminium composite panel (ACP) manufacturer, has launched Bricklyn, a new addition to its Santa Fe series. Inspired by the strength of traditional bricks and reimagined with contemporary design, Bricklyn merges heritage aesthetics with advanced technology.
The design draws from Brooklyn’s urban energy and the stacking ingenuity of Jenga, offering structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and creative flexibility. Available in a range of muted and bold hues, the panels allow architects to craft dynamic, visually striking façades.
Engineered using Stucco Textures and Synchro Technology, Bricklyn ensures durability and resilience with a 15-year warranty, reinforcing Viva ACP’s commitment to quality.
“Bricklyn is more than a cladding solution; it’s a tribute to tradition and innovation,” the company stated, positioning the series as a benchmark for modern architectural design.
               

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