Steelmaking capacity roundup MPs postponed AcelorMittal's detailed decarbonization projects in Germany and trade protection developments in the United Kingdom, the EU and Taiwan, this month.
The monthly summary, as listed below, brings together the steelmaking capacity changes previously submitted to the MEPs-x European Steel Review, International Steel Review and Stainless Steel Review. Contact the MEPs for details on how to subscribe to these monthly publications that provide steel prices and indicators, research comments and six-month steel price forecasts.
Europe
[b]"ArcelorMittal"[/b]
ArcelorMittal has placed decarbonization plans for its Bremen and Eisenhuttenstadt plants in Germany on hold.
As part of the project, construction was originally scheduled to begin in June 2025, aimed at replacing traditional blast furnaces with DRI and chipboard equipment.
However, the steelmaker has now determined that the economic transformation is untenable, despite receiving up to EUR1.3 billion in financial support from the federal government and regional authorities.
Pointing out the reasons for its decision, ArcelorMittal stated that green hydrogen is not yet a viable energy source, and natural gas-based DRI production is not competitive as a temporary solution.
ArcelorMittal has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing carbon emissions through its work, but acknowledges that achieving the 2030 carbon emissions targets is becoming increasingly unlikely.
Separately, ArcelorMittal has confirmed that it will sell its operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including the Zenica Metallurgical Plant and Prijedor iron ore mine in Bosnia to the Pavgord Group. After deducting the proceeds from the sale, the company expects to record an accounting loss of USD 200 million as a result of this transaction. The transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter.
Trade Protection – Europe
The European Commission has begun consultations on new legislation that will replace the EU steel protection mechanism, which expires on June 30, 2026.
The consultations are taking place amid concerns about overcapacity in global steel production and the effects of recent tariff increases in the United States, which could lead to increased steel exports to the EU.
They will be open until August 18, 2025, and the Commission invites representatives from all parts of the steel supply chain. The Commission is expected to publish a legislative proposal later in the third quarter.
Separately, the UK government is reviewing
