Vietnamese Steel Faces High Preliminary Anti-Dumping Tariffs in U.S. Probe

VIETNAMESE STEEL FACES HIGH PRELIMINARY ANTI-DUMPING TARIFFS IN U.S. PROBE

March 12, 2026

The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued a preliminary ruling imposing sharply higher anti-dumping duties on reinforcing steel imports from Vietnam, a move that could significantly affect steel exporters and logistics providers involved in the trade.

Under the initial determination, the agency concluded that Vietnamese rebar has been sold in the U.S. market at unfairly low prices. As a result, provisional duties have been set at 121.97% for a selected Vietnamese exporter and its affiliated companies, while other Vietnamese exporters face a duty rate of 130.77%.

The companies named in the investigation include major steel producers such as Hoa Phat Hai Duong Steel Company, Hoa Phat Dung Quat Steel Company, and Hoa Phat Hung Yen Steel Company.

The proposed duties are considerably higher than those applied to other countries under the same investigation. Reinforcing steel from Bulgaria faces a preliminary duty of about 52.8%, while imports from Egypt are subject to rates ranging from 34.2% to 52.7%.

Rapid export growth now faces headwinds

Vietnam’s rebar shipments to the United States have surged in recent years. Trade data shows exports rising from just over 43 tons in 2022, worth about $43,000, to 27,700 tons valued at $16.8 million in 2023. By 2024, shipments were estimated to reach 56,400 tons, with a value approaching $30 million.

The steep duties now proposed by Washington could slow that momentum. Higher tariffs would likely raise costs for importers and may reduce demand for Vietnamese steel, which in turn could affect cargo volumes moving through international supply chains.

Investigation enters critical phase

Vietnam’s Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam said the investigation will continue in the coming months. U.S. officials may request additional information from Vietnamese companies and conduct on-site verification visits to review company records.

The DOC is expected to release its final decision in July 2026.

For exporters and logistics firms, the period leading up to that ruling will be crucial. Companies involved in the steel trade are being advised to closely follow developments in the investigation and prepare documentation to support their case.

Implications for logistics and supply chains

For logistics providers handling steel shipments, the case highlights the growing importance of tracking trade policy changes. Tariffs of this scale could alter shipping volumes, redirect supply chains, or force exporters to reconsider their market strategies.

Industry observers say companies that stay ahead of regulatory developments will be better positioned to advise clients, adjust transport planning, and manage potential risks in cross-border steel trade.

Source: Nhịp sông thị trường