Show your mettle

Steel sector urges government to 'act decisively' against import surge if Trump brings in tariffs

- CHRISTOPHER BUCKTIN

UK steel leaders have called for decisive action to defend the sector after Donald Trump announced a 25% US import tariff.

The organisation representing the industry said the government must respond to prevent a "fallout of rising global protectionism".

America is a key market for the UK, with around 5% of steel exports heading across the Atlantic.

However, the sector already faces difficulties and tariffs are expected to further strain struggling steelmakers.

Mr Trump's surprise levy, which includes aluminium, will raise fears that Prime Minister Keir Starmer's appeals for the US President to spare Britain from tariffs are being ignored.

UK Steel director general Gareth Stace said it meant a tax measure on high-emission steel imports should be brought forward to 2026.