EU steel tariffs ‘important step forward’, industry says
The European steel industry has welcomed the European Commission’s proposal to raise import tariffs and reduce duty-free quotas for foreign steel, calling it a crucial step to protect the sector from global overcapacity.
Under the plan, announced on Tuesday, the EU would cut tariff-free steel imports to 18.3 million tonnes a year. That is a 47 per cent reduction from 2024 levels. Once that limit is reached, a 50 per cent tariff would apply, up from the current 25 per cent.
Industry association Eurofer said the measure is essential to safeguard jobs and support Europe’s green transition. Director-general Axel Eggert said the goal is to curb “unfair imports” that flood the market at dumping prices and high carbon emissions, pushing European plants to operate at only 65 per cent capacity. That is far below the 80 to 85 per cent needed for profitability.
Steel giant ArcelorMittal, which operates major plants in Ghent, Genk, Geel, and Liège, also praised the move. European CEO Geert Van Poelvoorde described it as “a sigh of relief” for the sector, which has been struggling with cheap imports, weak demand, and rising costs.
The company urged a swift implementation of the new system and further EU action to ensure a fairer playing field, including measures for steel-derived products and a stronger Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
“Today’s proposal, together with an effective CBAM, will help to stem the shrinking of Europe’s steel industry”, said Van Poelvoorde.
The ArcelorMittal plant in Ghent © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK