The China Iron and Steel Association (CISA) has expressed concern that the 25% increase in tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports to the United States will negatively impact the global steel supply chain. Reuters reports that, while the short-term impact on Chinese steel exports may be limited, the long-term effects could see other countries imposing similar measures, thereby reducing the competitiveness of China’s steel products.
In 2024, China exported 508 thousand short tons of steel to the United States, accounting for 1.8% of total U.S. steel imports. Zhang Longqiang, deputy secretary general of CISA, strongly opposes the tariff increase, arguing that it does not foster healthy and fair trade and market competition. He further warned that the tariff hike would adversely affect the industrial and supply chain of the global steel industry, including China’s steel sector, in the medium to long term.
On February 10, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a 25 percent duty on all steel and aluminum imports without exceptions, set to take effect on March 12. The decision has raised concerns among U.S. trading partners, with industry associations and officials considering the potential ramifications.
