US tariffs to batter Thai steel industry

Sector already hit by cheap imports

- LAMONPHET APISITNIRAN

US President Donald Trump's tariffs are expected to deal a blow to the steel market, which is likely to see a decline in steel consumption, says the EAF Long Product Steel Producers Association.

The reciprocal tariffs, which will likely be imposed on goods from many countries, are predicted to cause a recession that will lead to lower demand for steel and price fluctuations, said association president Chaichalerm Bunyanuwat.

The association plans to monitor the global economy after Washington's pause on the enforcement of steep duties expires later this year, he said.