France Drives EU Steel Protective Measures to Safeguard Competitiveness
French Industry Minister Marc Ferracci spearheads an initiative supported by 11 EU countries to renew steel protective measures. The proposal urges the European Commission (EC) to design a new tariff quota system before June 2026, ensuring smooth transition from current safeguards. The initiative aims to maintain steel capacity utilization near the European Commission’s 85% target and secure long-term competitiveness for Europe’s steel industry.
Key Features of the New EU Steel Protective Measures
The initiative proposes a flexible tariff quota system with volumes adjusted to European steel demand fluctuations. Unlike current measures, quotas would reduce import limits by 40-50% relative to 2024 levels. Any excess imports would face additional duties applied uniformly across all third countries, preventing monopolization of duty-free quotas. Furthermore, the proposal extends protections to metal products previously uncovered, aiming to comprehensively shield the sector. EUROFER strongly supports the plan, emphasizing urgent political action to curb cheap steel imports that threaten Europe’s industry and green transition.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
This initiative highlights Europe’s strategic push to bolster its steel sector amid global import pressures. By combining tariff quotas with strict duty enforcement, the EC aims to balance market openness with industry protection. However, the effectiveness will depend on swift implementation and unified political support. SuperMetalPrice foresees that these measures could stabilize prices and production in Europe, fostering a competitive yet sustainable steel market aligned with environmental goals.
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