UK industry body UK Steel has raised concerns following reports that BP awarded a contract for approximately 7,000 mt of steel for the Net Zero Teesside carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) project to a Chinese supplier, despite the project receiving significant public support.
Net Zero Teesside is a flagship UK clean energy initiative intended to support regional jobs, investment and long-term industrial capability. UK Steel argued that sourcing steel overseas for publicly backed projects raises questions about whether such developments are maximizing value for the UK economy and domestic supply chains.
UK Steel director general Gareth Stace described the reported procurement decision as “deeply disappointing,” emphasizing that projects supported by taxpayers and consumers should reflect national industrial policy priorities. The association called for clearer procurement expectations and stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure publicly funded projects contribute to UK steel production, employment and industrial resilience.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group
