Thorworld Industries has welcomed Toby Perkins, Member of Parliament for Chesterfield, to its site to discuss the impact of proposed steel tariffs on UK manufacturers and the wider supply chain.
The visit included a meeting with senior leadership followed by a tour of Thorworld’s manufacturing operations. Discussions focused on the potential unintended consequences of planned changes to steel import tariffs, due to come into effect in July 2026.
Thorworld, a UK-based manufacturer of steel loading equipment based in Mr Perkins’ constituency, supports the Government’s objective of securing a sustainable domestic steel industry. However, the company has raised concerns that the current proposals risk placing UK steel-using manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage.
A central issue raised during the meeting was the imbalance between tariffs applied to raw or semi-finished steel and those applied to imported finished goods. While UK manufacturers face higher input costs due to increased tariffs on steel imports, overseas competitors are often able to import finished equipment without equivalent measures.
This dynamic risks incentivising the import of finished goods at the expense of UK-based manufacturing, potentially reducing demand for British steel in the long term.
“We fully support the UK steel industry and recognise its strategic importance, not least for national resilience and defence. However, it’s essential that policy supports the entire supply chain. If manufacturers like us are placed at a disadvantage, it ultimately reduces demand for British steel rather than strengthening it,” explained Brendan Wilson, Financial Director of Thorworld Industries.
During the visit, Thorworld also highlighted concerns around product quality and safety within parts of the global market. The company emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards, particularly in sectors where equipment reliability is critical.
Located in Chesterfield, near Sheffield – historically known as the UK’s ‘steel city’ – Thorworld plays a role in supporting regional manufacturing and supply chain activity. The business uses steel as a core input in its products and is therefore directly affected by fluctuations in both price and availability.
“It’s great to be able to meet with successful businesses like Thorworld to learn more about the impact of Government policy,” confirmed Toby Perkins MP. “I certainly agree with the principle that UK steel-using manufacturers should not be disadvantaged by policy measures and I am committed to raising Thorworld’s concerns with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).”
Thorworld has also submitted a letter to the DBT outlining its position, including recommendations such as mechanisms to offset increased input costs for UK manufacturers, targeted exemptions where domestic supply is limited, and consideration of trade measures on imported finished goods where steel represents a significant proportion of value.
The company is currently preparing further data to support its case, including indicative cost comparisons between UK manufacturing and imported alternatives.
