Steel Pulse: Infrastructure Boom Drives India's Soaring Demand

Sectoral Consumption Trends

India’s infrastructure and construction sector has emerged as the dominant force behind domestic steel consumption, accounting for nearly 65 percent of total usage. Of this, 25–30 percent is directly linked to government-led projects, underscoring the public sector’s pivotal role in shaping demand.

 

* Real estate and urban development continue to fuel steel uptake

* Roads, bridges, and metro systems are key consumption drivers

* Electric vehicle infrastructure and renewable energy projects add momentum

 

Policy Measures and Safeguards

To protect domestic producers from low-cost imports, the government imposed a 12 percent safeguard duty in April 2025.

 

* Minimum import prices set for five steel categories (USD 675–964 per tonne)

* Tariffs primarily target Chinese and South Korean steel inflows

* Industry experts report improved competitiveness and pricing stability

 

Industry Insights and Outlook

Experts from Jindal Steel and CARE Analytics highlight construction as the primary growth engine, with real estate and EV infrastructure acting as accelerators.

 

* Domestic steel production is rising to meet demand

* Government initiatives like PM Gati Shakti and Smart Cities are key enablers

* Analysts expect sustained growth through FY2030, with infrastructure at the core

 

Conclusion

India’s steel story is being written in concrete and rebar. With policy support, strategic investments, and robust public spending, the sector is poised for long-term expansion.

 

Sources: ANI, Livemint, BusinessWorld