The French government, along with other European countries, will advocate for increased protectionist measures against steel imports from China, government spokeswoman Sophie Primas said on Thursday.
The primate told French news channel Cnews that some initial quota measures had been taken, but the French government would play a leading role in upholding the interests of the European steel company.
This is a reaction to ArcelorMittal's decision to announce that it will eliminate 600 jobs at seven plants in northern France. The primate pointed out that excess steel production capacity in China is a contributing factor to the current crisis.
French Economy Minister Marc Ferracci plans to meet with ArcelorMittal to assess the severity of the situation and gain insight into the steelmaker's decision to suspend production. Decarbonization plan at its Dunkirk plant. "It is extremely important to accelerate the European steel protection process", - the Primate said.
Primas did not specify which steel products of Chinese origin she was referring to. In 2024, the EU imported about 3.4 million tons of iron ore and steel from China under Chapter 72, of which more than 1 million tons accounted for coated rolled products, for which China has already been granted EU protective quotas, Kallanish notes
ArcelorMittal France's plan to reduce its workforce by 600 people in the north of the country will affect seven enterprises, including Dunkirk, Florange, Bas-Endre, Mardique, Mouzon, Devre and Montait
"As the European steel industry is experiencing a crisis characterized by a 20% drop in demand over five years and a sharp increase in imports, which currently account for 30% of the market, ArcelorMittal France North must constantly review its efficiency and competitiveness", - ArcelorMittal said in a note.
