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Iron and Steel: Manufacturing Industries

Asked by Dame Harriett BaldwinConservativeDepartment for Business and TradeTabled Answered 29 June 2026UIN 12663

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the level of risk of downstream steel manufacturers relocating outside of the UK following the quota reduction and 50% tariff on imported steel.

Answered by Chris McDonald

A strong domestic steel sector and competitive downstream industries depend on one another. Strengthening UK steelmaking supports more resilient supply chains.

Based on 2025 trade levels, around 74% by value and 53% by volume of steel imports are not covered by the trade measure, so entirely outside of these tariffs.

The trade measure only applies to steel categories that can be produced in the UK, with quotas set to ensure continued availability of tariff-free imports. There is a transitionary arrangement in place to help supply chains adapt.

The Government will continue to engage with industry and actively monitor impacts, including through a review after 12 months.

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