The WTO is reviewing protective measures, paying special attention to steel products
The World Trade Organization (WTO) Committee on Protective Measures announced that it had considered a total of 38 protective measures at its meeting on April 27, with much of the discussion focused on steel and metal products. Of the total number of measures, 12 were related to steel and metal products, highlighting the ongoing global trade tensions in this sector.
EU and UK steel measures attract a lot of attention
Several WTO members expressed concern and exchanged views on the protective measures taken by the EU and the UK.
In particular, the discussions focused on:
- EU study on electrical steel with grain
- EU measures on ferroalloying elements
- UK adjustment of tariff quotas (TRQs) for certain types of steel products
These measures have provoked numerous statements from the participating countries, reflecting their broader impact on the global steel trade.
Among the most discussed cases were three Egyptian investigations into ferrous metallurgy, as well as EU measures and investigations related to steel materials and specialized steel products. These cases have raised concerns among many WTO members about market access and trade distortions.
Dispute over US tariffs escalates
The meeting also discussed ongoing disagreements over tariffs in the United States. The United States has stated that its measures are not defensive measures, but are justified, except for national security reasons. However, India disagreed with how the US characterized its measures and said that, based on their characteristics, they were subject to a Safeguards Agreement, while Brazil and China expressed concern about the broader impact of the US measures on the multilateral trading system and global supply chains. Brazil and India said they would continue to closely monitor developments related to these measures.
Steel remains at the center of global trade tensions
Discussions at the WTO have highlighted the central role of steel in current trade disputes, with protective measures increasingly being used to address import pressures and protect domestic industry.
At the same time, differing interpretations of trade rules and growing protectionism continue to challenge the multilateral trading system.
Author: SteelOrbis Editorial Team
Steelorbis.com