North American HRC access tightens as U.S. tariff burden rises and Mexico imposes anti-dumping duties

According to Mysteel, the United States increased its Section 232 steel tariff to 50% from April 6, 2026 and broadened the tariff base from steel-content value to full customs value. Mysteel, citing U.S. Department of Commerce data, reported July U.S. HRC imports of 83,600 tonnes, down 19.8% month on month and 14.9% year on year; Chinese HRC shipments to the U.S. were only 1,108 tonnes. In Mexico, MOFCOM’s compilation of the final anti-dumping action says non-sampled cooperating Chinese companies received a duty of $0.3070/kg and other Chinese companies $0.3087/kg. The measure took effect the day after publication of the announcement.

• Mysteel reports the U.S. Section 232 steel tariff increased from 25% to 50%, effective April 6, 2026.
• Mysteel says the U.S. tariff calculation base expanded from steel-content value to the product’s full customs value.
• Mysteel reported Nucor’s HRC consumer spot price at $1,200 per short ton.
• July U.S. HRC imports were reported at 83,600 tonnes, down 19.8% month on month and 14.9% year on year.
• Mysteel put July Chinese HRC exports to the U.S. at 1,108 tonnes.
• MOFCOM reported Mexican anti-dumping rates of $0.3070/kg for non-sampled cooperating Chinese companies and $0.3087/kg for other Chinese companies.
• Vietnamese companies received rates of $0.2719–0.2855/kg, providing a relevant competitive benchmark in Mexico.
• The U.S. policy details are reported by Mysteel rather than established here from a U.S. legal notice; the Mexican details come from a MOFCOM compilation referencing Mexico’s announcement.

Monitor U.S. HRC import volumes and domestic spot pricing for evidence of sustained market tightening. In Mexico, watch supplier-specific application and customs implementation of the final duties, as well as whether lower Vietnamese rates shift sourcing patterns. Also track diversion of Chinese HRC toward other regions and any resulting pressure on regional prices and trade-remedy activity.