EUROMETAL President Alexander Julius and CEO Ricardo Silva were received yesterday in Brussels by the Turkish Exporters' Assembly (TIM) at its newly established Brussels office.
TIM is an umbrella organization representing more than 150,000 exporting companies from all industries in Turkey, including the metallurgical sector. The opening of the office in Brussels is aimed at strengthening the dialogue with European institutions, as well as with industry associations.
During the meeting, TIM CEO Mehmet Tan presented the activities and priorities of the organization, as well as explored potential areas for future cooperation with EUROMETAL. Mr. Mehmet Emin Kavlak, TIM's Deputy Representative in Brussels, also participated in the discussions.
The exchange of views provided an opportunity to discuss the strong and long-standing trade relations between the European Union and Turkey, where Turkey remains an important partner for both imports and exports.
The participants also discussed the changing political landscape affecting the steel industry, including ways to decarbonize. The Turkish steel sector was noted for its relatively high share of electric arc furnace (EDP) production, which plays an important role in reducing the industry's carbon footprint.
The meeting also touched upon broader trade and policy issues, including the framework of the EU–Turkey Customs Union, ongoing discussions related to the EU-Turkey trade relationship (free trade negotiations), and the importance of addressing global steel overcapacity while ensuring trade measures comply with WTO rules.
Both organizations agreed on the importance of maintaining an open dialogue between European and Turkish stakeholders to support a competitive, transparent and sustainable steel value chain.
