<h1>Steel Imports to India Surge from 2012-2015 Despite Tariff Hike; China Leads Supply for Crucial Sectors.</h1> Data from 2012 to 2015 shows a significant increase in steel imports to India, particularly from China, with quantities rising from 1.77 million tons in 2012-13 to 3.52 million tons in 2014-15. Despite a tariff rate increase from 10% to 15% in the 2015-16 budget, effective customs duty rates remain unchanged. Imports are driven by the unavailability or higher domestic cost of certain steel grades, crucial for sectors like automotive and engineering. The steel sector is deregulated, with the government's role limited to policy guidance, leaving investment decisions to private investors.