The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), the investigation arm of the commerce ministry, has recommended imposition of a 12 per cent provisional safeguard duty for 200 days on certain steel products with an aim to protect domestic players from surge in imports. The final decision to impose the duty will be taken by the finance ministry.

India announced it planned to join the worldwide wave of steel protectionism by imposing trade tariffs. The Indian government said it would impose 12% safeguard duties on steel products to safeguard its domestic market.

Experts predict a 50% reduction in India's steel imports in FY26 following a recommended safeguard duty. The move aims to protect domestic manufacturers and boost profitability.