United States imposes 73.33% countervailing duty on Algerian steel

The United States Department of Commerce has imposed countervailing duties of 73.33% on imports of certain carbon steel rods and billets from Algeria. The measure targets hot-rolled steel products that are quasi-circular in shape with a diameter of less than 19 millimeters.

The decision follows an investigation covering the 2025 calendar year, which concluded that Algerian producers receive subsidies. The high rate was applied specifically to Algerian Qatar Steel (AQS) and all other Algerian producers and exporters not subject to individual examination.

U.S. authorities cited a lack of cooperation during the investigation as a primary reason for the high rate. Despite AQS being designated as the main respondent, the company and the Algerian government failed to provide requested information. Consequently, the Department of Commerce utilized ‘facts available with adverse inferences’ to establish the duty rate.

Certain steel categories are exempt from these duties, including stainless steel, tool steel, high-nickel steel, and bearing steel. The Department of Commerce has instructed customs and border protection authorities to continue suspending the liquidation of imports subject to these duties.