New UK government tariffs on steel imports are creating significant hurdles for the construction industry. By slashing import quotas and doubling tariffs, the policy risks making low-carbon steel from electric arc furnaces and repurposed steel more expensive and harder to source. Industry leaders warn that these costs will hinder contractors trying to meet embedded carbon targets, particularly in major London projects. The gap between domestic production capacity and actual demand may force firms to source fabrication abroad, undermining local sustainability efforts.
