Steel industry fights new US duties

PROPOSED ANTI-dumping duties by the US on SA steel imports has set alarm bells ringing for the local steel industry. If the measure is implemented it will shut the door on one of South Africa's biggest markets and could cripple the entire industry, according to sources. The US International Trade Commission has claimed that the US steel industry has been materially injured by hot-rolled steel products imported from South Africa. The Industrial Development Corporation's chief executive Khaya Ngqula has expressed fears that if the US succeeds in imposing the anti-dumping duties, Europe could take similar action. Ngqula flew to Washington last week to intercede on behalf of the local industry.