Middle East

Price escalation in the region has been driven by heightened raw material inflation, supply chain constraints and elevated energy costs. Supply disruption, encompassing global shipping delays and material scarcity, will continue to impact inventory management and lead times. Meanwhile, stainless steel is maintaining its critical role across diverse sectors, including construction, automotive, manufacturing and consumer goods.

An expanding population and a thriving tourism sector in the UAE have fuelled demand for stainless steel within commercial kitchens, healthcare facilities and hospitality establishments. Furthermore, the development of contemporary, high-end structures and residential complexes has amplified the utilisation of stainless steel in architectural applications, including facades and interior design components.

Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa region is witnessing a significant increase in demand for high-purity nickel strips and ternary precursor materials which are essential components in advanced lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage applications.

The market is further characterised by the growing implementation of digital solutions, sustainable practices and strategic alliances, all of which are contributing to the expansion of the market.

The second quarter of 2025 in the Middle East nickel market was characterised by a complex interplay of factors, including price volatility, evolving demand from EV batteries and potential supply chain disruptions. While some analysts predict a rebound, others foresee continued pressure on prices owing to fundamental factors and potential geopolitical uncertainties. 

Saudi Arabia has imposed final anti-dumping duties, effective for five years, on imports of steel or stainless-steel tubes with longitudinally-welded circular sections imported from China and Taiwan. The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority has been instructed to enforce and collect tariffs ranging from 6.5% to 27.3%. This strategic measure supports the Kingdom’s objectives to bolster the competitiveness of domestic products, stimulate investment and cultivate emerging industries.

The duties aim to protect domestic industries from unfair trade practices by foreign exporters. Specifically, they seek to protect local businesses from the adverse effects of dumping and subsidised imports. These measures also help prevent surges in imports that could harm domestic industries and protect Saudi exports from similar trade-remedy measures imposed by other countries.