In a move aimed at protecting domestic producers and ensuring fair trade practices, the Indian government has extended restrictions on the import of low-ash metallurgical (met) coke until December 31, 2025, according to a report. The import of this key steelmaking raw material will now be subject to a total annual quota of 1.4 million metric tonnes, as part of ongoing efforts to prevent market distortions caused by cheap imports.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has officially notified the extension, which includes licensing conditions for importers. The decision comes alongside an ongoing anti-dumping investigation into met coke imports from several countries, including China and Australia, where producers are alleged to be supplying the product below fair market value.
Metallurgical coke, which is essential in the blast furnace steelmaking process, is typically used by integrated steel plants. The domestic coke industry had earlier raised concerns over unregulated imports affecting local pricing and impacting the viability of Indian producers, many of whom rely on high-grade low-ash coke for efficiency and emission standards.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the move, stating that the quota-based approach allows for controlled imports to meet genuine shortfalls without undermining the domestic market. However, they have also urged the government to fast-track the anti-dumping investigations and impose definitive duties if unfair trade practices are confirmed.
The restriction is expected to provide a more stable price environment for domestic coke manufacturers while supporting India’s broader objectives of self-reliance in steel production and raw material security. The government’s decision reflects a strategic balancing of supply assurance and trade protection in one of the most critical input segments for the steel industry.
