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Anil Agarwal Calls for Aluminium Safeguard After Steel Duty Imposed

Metals and Mining

Business Honor
16 May, 2025

Vedanta chief warns of cheap imports, urges protection for India’s aluminium industry.

Following the government's recent imposition of a 12% safeguard levy on some steel imports, Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal has called for the immediate protection of India's aluminum industry. He feels both steel and aluminium are now at the center of global trade tensions, particularly between the US and China.

In a post on social media platform X, Agarwal commented, "There are two nations that are at the center of the trade war, the US and China. But did you know there are two products that are also at the center—aluminium and steel?" His observation underscores how these two important materials are coming to the center in global economic planning.

India's steel safeguard duty, introduced in April, will remain in effect for 200 days. It is to safeguard Indian steel producers from a tide of cheap imports that can harm the local industry. Imports that are below the prices of the global market are subject to the duty.

Though in favor of this move, Agarwal cautioned that aluminium may be next. He said that large global producers, particularly those struggling in traditional markets, would start selling aluminium at lower prices in nations such as India. He opines that this might harm domestic aluminium manufacturers if measures are not taken.

Agarwal cited the United States, which already imposes a 25% duty on the importation of steel and aluminium, even from close allies such as Canada and Mexico. He called on India to react fast to prevent getting flooded by cheap aluminium imports.

"India is endowed with sizeable bauxite deposits and can emerge as a world aluminium hub," he said. He also pointed towards the increasing role of the metal because of its lightweight, recyclability, and application in multiple industries.

Gaurav Agarwal looks at safeguard duties as more than mere trade measures—they are economic lifelines for India's businesses and future prosperity.