The UK government announced new trade measures on April 2, 2026, significantly tightening restrictions on 20 categories of steel products.

Beginning July 1, 2026, existing import quotas will decrease by 60%, with a 50% tariff applied to volumes exceeding these limits. This policy is in line with the national steel industry strategy and coincides with similar volume reductions implemented by the European Union.

The system utilizes country-specific and global residual quotas managed on a quarterly, first-come, first-served basis. To support downstream manufacturers, specific "Category 1 authorized use" quotas ensure access to essential primary steel intended for further processing.

Besides, the government is exploring a transitional arrangement to exempt goods under contracts signed before March 14, 2026, and imported between July 1 and September 30, 2026, aiming to prevent unexpected costs while protecting the market from excessive imports.