Shropshire Chamber of Commerce is calling on the Government to urgently review proposed changes to steel import measures, following a sharp rise in concern from manufacturers, engineering firms and supply‑chain businesses across the county.

The new rules, which include a 60% reduction in tariff‑free quotas and a doubling of tariffs on other steel imports from July 1, have triggered anxiety among firms already grappling with rising costs, supply‑chain volatility and global uncertainty.

Shropshire Chamber says it has seen a significant increase in conversations, emails and direct member feedback, with employers warning the changes could undermine competitiveness, delay production schedules and place further pressure on margins.

Chief executive Ruth Ross said the strength of feeling from local industry was impossible to ignore, and is reaching out to the county’s MPs to raise the issue in Westminster.

“Shropshire’s manufacturers and engineering firms rely on stable, affordable access to steel. These sudden changes risk creating real disruption for businesses that are already operating in a challenging economic climate.

“We want our members to know that we hear them, we understand the seriousness of their concerns, and we are acting on their behalf.”

She added: “Our message to Government is clear. Any policy shift of this scale must take into account the realities faced by the businesses who keep our regional economy moving.

“We are asking for a review of the quota reductions, a reassessment of the tariff increases, and meaningful dialogue with industry before long‑term decisions are finalised.”

The Chamber is also feeding intelligence into the British Chambers of Commerce national policy team, ensuring that Shropshire’s voice is represented in wider discussions with ministers and officials.

Local businesses have highlighted several potential impacts, including increased production costs for manufacturers reliant on specialist steel grades not readily available in the UK, and delays in fulfilling orders due to restricted access to imported materials

Reduced competitiveness against overseas firms not facing equivalent tariff pressures, and knock‑on effects for engineering, construction, automotive and advanced manufacturing supply chains, have also been reported

The Chamber is encouraging affected businesses to continue sharing evidence, case studies and data to strengthen the lobbying effort.

“We will keep pushing this issue at every level,” said Ruth Ross. “Our role is to ensure that Shropshire’s business community is heard, protected and supported — and that is exactly what we are doing.”

Businesses wishing to contribute to the Chamber’s ongoing policy work on this issue can contact the policy team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Shropshire Chamber has also just launched its latest quarterly economic survey to gain a snapshot of the mood among local employers.

The survey, which feeds into national policymakers, quizzes business owners on a wide range of topics including sales forecasts, international trade, recruitment, training, cashflow, and confidence levels.

It is open to any business of any size in Shropshire or Telford & Wrekin. Companies do not need to be a member of Shropshire Chamber to take part.

All submissions are anonymous, to allow businesses to speak honestly and frankly. To take part, see https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ShropChQ2-26