Arab steel summit calls for common regional steel market

The 19th Arab Steel Summit has called for the establishment of a common Arab steel market as part of six recommendations outlined in the Cairo Declaration issued last week.

The declaration, announced by Ahmed Ezz, chairman of the Arab Iron and Steel Union, proposed a gradual framework for greater integration between Arab steel markets.

The first stage would cover steel products under HS codes 7201-7306 and include the creation of a unified database covering production, capacity and trade. Subsequent stages would seek to harmonize customs duties and rules of origin, establish a joint authority to investigate dumping and subsidy cases, and eventually remove trade barriers between participating countries.

The final stage proposes the creation of a permanent Arab Steel Authority to oversee external market protection, competition and industry data.

Other recommendations included aligning trade protection measures across Arab countries, encouraging investment in direct reduction, steelmaking and casting, and supporting the development of downstream industries using flat steel.

The declaration also called for measures to increase rebar consumption through housing and construction initiatives and for the establishment of specialized steel industry departments within Arab ministries of industry.

The recommendations aim to strengthen regional industrial integration and improve the competitiveness of Arab steelmakers amid changing global trade conditions.