Egypt shocks global steel markets by implementing 16.2% provisional safeguard duty on billet imports effective September 14, 2025. The measure follows a dramatic 227% surge in imports during 2024 that threatened domestic producers' viability. The duty includes a minimum specific rate of 4,613 Egyptian pounds per metric ton, creating dual-layer protection. Russian suppliers must redirect substantial volumes to alternative markets, while Egyptian steel producers gain breathing space to recover competitiveness.