U.S. Anti-Dumping Tariffs Hit Algerian Rebar as CMC Stock Dips

Commercial Metals Co. (CMC) has secured a significant victory following the U.S. Department of Commerce’s preliminary determination that Algerian rebar shipments constitute unfair market dumping. The ruling immediately imposes a 127% anti-dumping duty on all Algeria-sourced rebar entering domestic U.S. markets—a dramatic move designed to level the playing field for domestic producers.

The Tariff Impact and Industry Timeline

This determination marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing trade dispute that escalated when the U.S. rebar industry filed its petition in June 2025. The Commerce Department has also signaled that parallel preliminary rulings on rebar imports from Egypt, Vietnam, and Bulgaria are forthcoming, with determinations expected to roll out between January and March 2026.

The 127% duty barrier represents a substantial cost increase for importers, fundamentally reshaping the competitive landscape. A final determination, potentially adjusting these margins, will be rendered within 75 days, leaving stakeholders in a holding pattern as the full scope of trade restrictions becomes clearer.

Market Reaction and Strategic Considerations

The market has already begun pricing in these developments. CMC closed trading at $69.62 on the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday, reflecting a modest 0.54% decline. While the stock movement appears measured, companies relying on anti derivatives and other hedging instruments are actively positioning themselves against currency and commodity price volatility stemming from these tariff changes.

For producers, the tariff regime presents both challenges and opportunities. Domestic rebar manufacturers may benefit from reduced import competition, yet the ripple effects across construction and infrastructure sectors could influence steel pricing dynamics throughout 2026. The multi-country enforcement approach suggests a coordinated strategy to address broader market manipulation concerns across the rebar supply chain.