The European Commission's consultations on the replacement of existing import safeguards have increased uncertainty among stainless steel buyers.
Most EU importers have suspended their overseas orders due to a lack of clarity regarding the new legislation and the possible timing of its introduction, as well as the growing demand for steel. concerns about the cost of CBAM taxes that will apply from January 1, 2026.
The EU import protection measures expire at the end of June 2026. The Commission is expected to publish details of its new trade protection mechanism in the third quarter, after its monthly consultations end on August 18. However, a study by MEPs showed that the questions contained in the large-scale survey, which was part of the evidence gathering, may have exacerbated the concerns of steel buyers
- This article first appeared in the August issue of the[url= / / / /gb/en/products/stainless-steel-review]International Stainless Steel Review by MEPS. The publication provides information on market conditions, stainless steel prices, indices and forecasts in key markets in Europe, Asia and North America. Contact the members of the European Parliament for detailed information on how to subscribe.
Consideration of tariffs according to the American model
Industry stakeholders were asked about the feasibility of an American-style pre-subscription. The tariff may be a suitable alternative to the existing tariff quota system (TRQ). She wondered which tariff level – including the option of 50% or more – would be appropriate. Another question was whether any new measures should be introduced six months earlier, on January 1, 2026.
If a TRQ-based replacement is adopted, the Commission has also asked for opinions on their scope. The question was asked whether quotas should be set at the current 33-35 million tons; reflect the market share of imports until 2015, amounting to about 21-23 million tons; be two times lower than the level of imports by 2024, amounting to about 16-18 million tons; or differentiate by product type.
Following recent trade negotiations with the United States, the EU may be under increased pressure to tighten trade protection measures. As a result of the EU-US trade deal, 50% steel tariffs were maintained in accordance with Section 232 on EU steel. However, a future quota system involving zero or reduced rates may depend on stricter import controls.
EU respondents interviewed by MEPs are unsure about the potential costs and implications of shipping for future stainless steel imports. This fluctuation further reduced demand during the summer
