The Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) has unveiled a proposal calling on the EU to adopt a more protectionist approach to protect the EU steel industry from cheap imports and market distortions, according to a Reuters report.
Accordingly, the party calls on the European Commission to implement a "Buy European" strategy and a reliable trade protection system aimed at ensuring fair competition and preserving the creation of intrinsic value.
The SPD's plan is based on the creation of a tariff policy. -The quota system makes it possible to limit excessive import volumes while maintaining market openness and control. The party argues that such an approach is vital to protect European steel producers from subsidized competitors, especially from China, whose exports continue to undermine EU markets.
The proposal also provides for stricter controls on Russian steel imports, including mechanisms to prevent indirect entry into the EU market through Turkey and other intermediaries.
The proposal reflects growing concerns about the decline in industrial production and job losses in traditional steel-producing regions. The party warns that uncontrolled imports and high energy prices could undermine Europe's industrial base.
The SPD insists that its plan is not protectionism, but rather an attempt to ensure fair competition and protect Europe's strategic interests in steel, a key material for infrastructure, defense and the transition to a "green economy.".
Steelorbis.com
