European steel processors and importers have criticized the European Commission's approach to the introduction of a new system of protective measures after the end of the current protection regime. Industry representatives believe that the timetable for the transition to the new rules does not meet the realities of industrial supply chains and creates critical uncertainty for the market. This was announced by the President of Eurometal, Alexander M. Julius.
Starting from July 1, 2026, a significantly stricter steel market protection regime should be introduced in the EU. It provides for a reduction of duty-free quotas by about 47% and an increase in duties on excess quota imports to 50%.
However, market participants note that there is still a lack of clarity regarding the allocation of quotas by country and type of products. According to them, companies are forced to conclude import contracts without understanding whether products will be subject to zero duty or a 50% tariff.
The industry notes that production chains in metallurgy require at least six months of planning, and for contract deliveries this period often reaches a year. At the same time, steel production and delivery to Europe take about five months on average. An additional problem is the need for pre-certification of many types of products, which limits the ability to quickly change suppliers.
According to representatives of the processing sector, the European Commission is actually forcing companies to make strategic decisions in a "regulatory vacuum." They warn that this situation poses a structural threat to European supply chains, especially against the backdrop of already weak demand and high pressure on industry.
Market participants also note that the new restrictions may affect not only importers, but also European manufacturers of finished products, which depend on stable supplies of steel and semi-finished products.
Industry representatives urge the European Commission to synchronize the timing of the implementation of new measures with the real needs of the industry and ensure greater predictability for businesses.
