The Delhi High Court has dismissed requests [1] from JSW Steel and Trafigura to clear shipments of low-ash metallurgical coke (met coke), a key raw material for steelmaking. The decision follows India’s recent policy of supporting domestic suppliers and imposing curbs on met coke imports.
The policy, introduced in January, includes country-specific quotas and has sparked concerns among steel industry leaders. JSW Steel had challenged the rejection of $90 million worth of imports ordered before the restrictions were implemented. Similarly, Trafigura sought clearance for one of its shipments. However, the court sided with the government, stating that allowing these imports would undermine the purpose of the new policy.
Judge Sachin Datta noted that the companies knew the impending restrictions when placing their orders. The government argued that the requested imports exceeded the quota limits, further justifying the rejection.
The restrictions have broader implications for India’s steel industry, the world’s second-largest producer of crude steel. Imports of low-ash met coke have more than doubled in recent years, prompting the government to cap overseas purchases at 1.4 million metric tons for the first half of 2025.
ArcelorMittal Nippon India has expressed concerns about the policy’s impact on business operations and the quality of locally produced met coke. Some have warned of potential production cuts and delays in expansion plans.
Sources:
[1] India court rejects JSW Steel, Trafigura request to clear certain met coke imports https://www.reuters.com/world/india/india-court-rejects-jsw-steel-trafigura-request-clear-certain-met-coke-imports-2025-03-30/