The Indian automobile industry has called on the steel ministry to lift restrictions on steel imports, warning that these measures could disrupt production. Industry representatives from the Automotive Components Manufacturers' Association (ACMA) highlighted that the government has imposed strict controls on steel imports due to a recent surge. ACMA's Director General, Vinnie Mehta, noted that automotive steel imports constitute only about five percent of total imports, often measured in small quantities.

Currently, importers must obtain a no objection certificate (NOC) from the government to justify their need for specific steel grades, but delays in receiving these certificates are causing concern. Both ACMA and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) have approached the ministries involved, expressing hope for a resolution given that both ministries are overseen by the same minister. Mehta emphasized that some manufacturers may have to halt production due to dwindling inventory levels and urged that the challenges faced by the automotive sector need urgent attention.