20.05.2026

We know many of you are concerned about the proposed changes to steel import quotas, so here’s a clear view of what’s happening and what it could mean for your business.

What are steel import quotas?

Steel import quotas are limits set by the Government on how much steel can be brought into the UK without additional tariffs.

They are designed to protect UK steel producers, but they also affect how easily you can source the materials you need.

What’s changing?

The Government has published draft quota levels across different steel categories. These are not final and are likely to change ahead of confirmation in July.

The concern is that some of the proposed limits may be too low. In practice this could make it harder, or more expensive, to import certain types of steel, particularly where UK supply is limited or not available.

What Make UK is doing

We are working closely with the Department for Business and Trade and with UK Steel to ensure these concerns are heard.

Our focus is on making sure the final quotas reflect how manufacturers actually source steel in practice.

Join the conversation

We’ll be unpacking the latest developments and what they mean for costs and supply chains at our upcoming:

Member Livecast: Steel Market Q&A

Join the Livecast

Take action: share your experience

To make the strongest case to Government, we need your input.

Please review the proposed quotas for the steel you use and tell us:

  • Where you rely on imports because UK supply isn’t available
     
  • Where proposed quota levels would make it difficult for your business to operate

Your insight helps us challenge proposals that don’t match real-world demand.

Send your feedback to: [email protected]