(Tay Nam Steel) – On March 12, 2025, the United States announced new import tariffs targeting several countries, with a particular focus on China. This decision has raised concerns about the possibility of Chinese goods being rerouted through Vietnam to “launder their origin” before being re-exported to the U.S. The issue not only poses challenges for Vietnamese steel exporters but also has broader implications for the entire industrial sector and national economy.
Impact of the New U.S. Import Tariffs on Vietnam’s Steel Industry
Rising risk of steel inflow from China
According to Mr. Dinh Quoc Thai, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the Vietnam Steel Association (VSA), the higher U.S. tariffs on Chinese steel could lead to a surge in Chinese steel exports into Vietnam. Without strict controls, this influx may disrupt the domestic market and increase scrutiny from U.S. authorities over concerns related to country-of-origin fraud.
The U.S. Department of Commerce reported that in 2024, China exported only a minimal amount of steel directly to the U.S. due to high anti-dumping tariffs of up to 400%. However, China exported over 8 million tons of steel to South Korea, Brazil, Japan, and Canada—nations that currently enjoy zero percent tariff rates from the U.S.—accounting for 10% of China’s total steel exports.
Meanwhile, these four countries exported a combined total of 13.7 million tons of steel to the U.S., representing 52% of U.S. steel imports. Although there is no official data confirming that Chinese steel is being rerouted through these countries to avoid U.S. tariffs, the newly announced American tariffs are widely seen as a measure to curb transshipment and tax evasion practices.
Export Challenges to Major Markets
It’s not only the United States—the European Union is also implementing trade protection measures, including the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), to monitor carbon emissions in steel production. This imposes stricter requirements on exporting businesses, compelling them to invest in green technology and emission reduction solutions to meet international standards.
Opportunities for Vietnam’s Steel Industry
1. Limited Impact from New U.S. Tariffs
According to SSI Research, Vietnamese steel has already been subject to a 25% tariff under Section 232 since 2018. This means the new tariffs are unlikely to severely impact Vietnam compared to other countries. Vietnam still has an opportunity to maintain its exports to the U.S., especially if businesses can demonstrate transparent and verifiable origins of their products.
2. A More Level Playing Field
Previously, many countries enjoyed preferential tariff rates compared to Vietnam, placing Vietnamese exporters at a disadvantage. However, as the new U.S. tariffs are applied more uniformly, Vietnamese businesses now have a better chance to compete fairly, particularly if their products meet strict international standards.
3. Expanding Export Markets Beyond the U.S.
According to data from Vietnam Customs, the U.S. was Vietnam’s largest steel export market in 2024, with impressive growth of 55% year-on-year, reaching USD 1.3 billion, accounting for 15% of Vietnam’s total steel export value.
Given this growth and significant contribution, Vietnamese steel exporters are expected to adopt a more cautious approach to avoid potential anti-dumping investigations from U.S. authorities. This could also be a catalyst for businesses to diversify into alternative markets such as ASEAN, the Middle East, Africa, or South America, where demand for construction steel is high and trade protection barriers are less strict.
Strategic Responses for Vietnamese Steel Enterprises
1. Strict Control Over Product Origin
To mitigate the risk of additional U.S. tariffs related to suspected transshipment, Vietnamese steel producers must ensure transparent sourcing of raw materials, with complete and verifiable certificates of origin. Strengthening collaboration with regulatory authorities is essential to ensure full compliance with export regulations.
2. Investment in Green Production Technology
Trade protection tools such as the EU’s CBAM are pushing the global steel industry toward green steel production. Vietnamese companies must invest in low-emission technologies and renewable energy solutions to meet environmental requirements in key export markets.
3. Market Diversification
Instead of relying heavily on the U.S. market, Vietnamese exporters should increase their presence in ASEAN, the Middle East, Africa, and South America. Market diversification will help reduce risks from sudden policy shifts in major markets.
4. Enhancing Product Quality and Added Value
Rather than competing on price with low-cost steel imports, Vietnamese businesses should focus on high-quality, value-added products that meet stringent technical standards. This strategy will help increase profitability and ease pressure from price-based competition.
Tay Nam Steel – A Trusted Partner of Vietnam’s Steel Industry
In the face of market volatility, Tay Nam Steel remains committed to providing high-quality galvanized steel products that meet both origin traceability and international technical standards. We stand ready to support industry peers in overcoming challenges and pursuing sustainable growth.
Stay tuned to Tay Nam Steel’s “Steel Industry News” section for the latest updates on the global and domestic steel market!
#taynamsteel
#tanamazgold
#tanamazplatium
#tondoctor
