Kazakhstan is preparing to implement a six-month ban on the export of steel billets, aiming to encourage domestic manufacturers to focus on higher value-added products. The Ministry of Industry and Construction has drafted a decree regulating billet exports, currently open for public discussion until June 11.
The proposed regulation will restrict the export of iron and unalloyed steel in ingots or other primary forms, excluding iron classified under heading 7203, along with semi-finished steel products. The ban will apply to all transportation methods, ensuring comprehensive enforcement.
Authorities expect the measure to drive investment in the production of finished steel goods, strengthening Kazakhstan’s metallurgical sector. In the first four months of 2025, Kazakhstan’s steel production rose 9.1% year-on-year to 1.41 million tons, while flat steel output grew 14.8% to 957.99 thousand tons. April’s steel production reached 369.63 thousand tons, reflecting both monthly and annual growth.
In 2024, Kazakhstan increased steel production by 9.5% compared to the previous year, reaching 4.17 million tons. Flat products output grew 18.2% to 2.9 million tons, with Qarmet Iron and Steel Works exceeding multiple production targets. The new export ban seeks to support this momentum.
