This order cancels a tax break (tariff concession) for importing specific alloy steel bars into Australia.
What it does
- Revokes Tariff Concession Order 8804145 (originally granted in 1988)
- Removes the duty-free or reduced-duty status for steel bars less than 24mm in diameter
- Affects only bars meeting specific technical grades (such as AISI 4130, 4140, 4340 or British Standards EN24, EN25, EN26, EN36A, EN39B, and EN41B)
Who it hits
Importers and manufacturers who bring these specific engineering steels into Australia under customs classification 7228.50. From 1 May 2007, these imports must pay standard customs duty instead of enjoying the previous concession.
Why it stings
This raises costs for businesses relying on these high-strength alloy steels (commonly used in machinery, automotive, and construction). The revocation typically happens when the government decides local manufacturers can now supply these goods, removing the need for cheaper imports.