Rising Import Costs: The Impact on India’s Steel Industry

Explore how rising coking coal import costs are impacting the Indian steel industry, leading to price hikes.

The growing import costs of coking coal, particularly from major supplier Australia, are having a considerable negative impact on steel production, posing a huge problem for the Indian steel sector. This blog will examine the effects of rising import costs on the Indian steel sector and the strategies steel companies intend to employ in response.

Costs of Import and Their Effect

The cost of Australian coking coal has increased by 50% to over $350 per metric tonne as a result of many causes including transportation problems, fewer supplies from Queensland, and maintenance problems. Due to their reliance on Australian imports, Indian steel mills are anticipated to see a cost increase of at least $50 per tonne in their finished steel products.

Reaction of Steel Companies

India’s steel mills are thinking about increasing prices by $25 to $50 per metric tonne by December to offset these rising costs. For hot-rolled and cold-rolled products, several steel firms have already started raising prices by about $12 to $24 per metric tonne. This is a calculated strategic action to lessen the effect of increased import costs on their profit margins.

Diversifying Supply Sources

Indian steel mills may look at diversifying their supply sources in view of the huge price hike for Australian coking coal. Due to potential discounts and the possibility to buy in greater quantities, Russia is viewed as a viable alternative. This change in procurement tactics may contribute to cost stabilization to some extent.

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Challenges Faced by Steel Industry

According to the Chairman of the Steel Authority of India (SAIL), higher coking coal costs have already had an effect on steel makers’ profit margins. The industry is dealing with a double problem of rising costs and rising demand, particularly with the increase in  structure- and construction- related  exertion following the monsoon season.  

The Indian steel industry is facing a serious issue as a result of the increase in the cost of coking coal imports from Australia. Steel producers are considering price increases and looking for alternate supply sources in order to sustain profitability. In light of shifting market conditions, the industry’s top priority continues to be balancing cost considerations with meeting expanding demand.