EU Steel Producers Demand End to Russian Slab Imports

Growing Pressure to Ban Russian Slab Imports

European steel producers face mounting challenges due to continued imports of Russian slabs. Despite 18 sanction packages against Russia, the EU imports 63% of its slabs from Russia in 2024. This situation fuels discontent among industry leaders who argue that these imports undermine the competitiveness of Europe’s steel sector. The relaxation of restrictions in late 2023 extended the import deadline to 2028, benefiting companies like NLMK Europe, which operates multiple steel plants across the EU.

The dependence on Russian slabs distorts the European steel market, as these imports are sold at significantly lower prices compared to local products. According to Gunnar Grebler, CEO of Salzgitter AG, Russian slabs’ market share rose from 53% to 62% during the war, while German producers grapple with overcapacity and plant closures. This imbalance threatens the survival of Europe’s steel industry amid soaring energy costs, rising tariffs, and cheap imports from Asia.

EU Steel Producers Demand Immediate Action on Russian Slabs

The EU’s sanctions policy faces criticism for its inconsistencies and compromises, which allow continued Russian slab imports. Industry leaders have sent urgent appeals to EU institutions demanding a complete ban. Dennis Grimm, CEO of Thyssenkrupp Steel, called the current situation “outrageous” as the EU funds Russia’s war economy while European producers suffer job cuts. Meanwhile, ArcelorMittal Europe’s commercial director, Denis Parein, stressed that ongoing imports threaten the entire European steel production capacity.

The issue also touches on broader strategic and security concerns. Critics argue that permitting Russian slab imports contradicts the EU’s Steel and Metals Action Plan and its strategic autonomy goals. Experts like Kerstin Maria Rippel of WV Stahl advocate closing this loophole through sanctions or tariffs. However, prolonged bureaucratic delays hamper decisive action, allowing continued support to Russian steel and complicating the EU’s industrial and geopolitical stance.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The ongoing import of Russian slabs reveals critical flaws in EU sanctions enforcement and industrial policy. While economic and political compromises delay decisive action, the longer the EU tolerates these imports, the more it undermines its own steel industry’s competitiveness and security. The solution lies in swift policy reform—closing loopholes and aligning trade practices with geopolitical realities. A unified stance will bolster Europe’s strategic autonomy and help rebuild its resilient, green steel sector.