EU Post-Safeguard Steel Measure Overview
The EU’s post-safeguard steel measure will take effect on 1 July, covering imports from all third countries. Only Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein are exempt under the European Economic Area agreement. The regulation requires importers to provide melt-and-pour origin evidence starting 1 October 2026. Within two years, the European Commission will review whether to use origin data to allocate quotas by country, potentially prompting legislative updates.
The framework also allows unused quarterly quotas to carry over into the next quarter for 20 working days. Quotas may consider 2013 import volumes, free trade agreements, and previous allocations such as UK-origin steel. Minor adjustments to CN codes are included but are expected to have limited impact on trade.
Implications for EU Steel Industry
The first review of the measure will occur 18 months after implementation, followed by broader assessments four years later and every two years thereafter. The Council emphasized monitoring potential price increases that could affect downstream industries. Stakeholders should note that no Russian steel ban is included in the current draft. Early consultations by the European Commission will begin by 1 October 2026, ensuring industry feedback informs future quota adjustments.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
The EU post-safeguard steel measure signals a balance between protecting domestic producers and maintaining import flexibility. Melt-and-pour rules and quota reviews will shape trade patterns and could influence global steel flows. Investors and steel importers should prepare for tighter compliance requirements and monitor quota reallocations to remain competitive.
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