Indonesian CR stainless steel shipments face customs delays in Malaysia ahead of AD review in Apr’26

• Malaysia accelerates Indonesian purchases amid duty hike expectations
• Surge in Indonesian export offers in Dec-Jan also prompts frontloading

SteelDaily: Indonesian cold-rolled (CR) stainless steel shipments are encountering clearance hurdles at Malaysian ports as customs authorities intensify scrutiny ahead of the administrative review outcome scheduled for 23 April 2026. The review, initiated by the Malaysian Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Investment (MITI), is reassessing existing anti-dumping (AD) duties on Indonesian-origin CR stainless steel.

Currently, Malaysian authorities impose AD duties ranging from 0% to 34.82% on Indonesian CR stainless steel, depending on the exporter. Market participants anticipate that tariff barriers could be maintained at elevated levels or revised upward following the review, in a move aimed at safeguarding domestic producers such as Baru Stainless Steel.

Pre-review buying surge intensifies supply chain pressure

Amid concerns over potential tariff hikes, Malaysian importers have accelerated procurement of Indonesian CR stainless steel to secure volumes under prevailing duty structures. Industry sources indicate a notable spike in order bookings in recent weeks, reflecting efforts to mitigate future cost escalations.

Adding to the urgency, Indonesian 304 stainless steel export offer prices surged by over $290/t between December and January, heightening cost pressures. The dual impact of rising base prices and anticipated tariff revisions has prompted buyers to front-load purchases.

However, the sudden influx of cargo has strained customs clearance systems. Reports suggest that hot-rolled and CR stainless steel coils are accumulating at port storage yards as inspections intensify. While some consignments have begun clearing gradually, traders are facing elevated demurrage and warehousing costs due to prolonged clearance timelines.

The Malaysian stainless steel market is likely to remain volatile until the formal announcement of the AD review outcome on 23 April, with tariff direction expected to shape near-term trade flows and pricing dynamics.

Note: This article has been written in accordance with a content exchange agreement between SteelDaily and BigMint.