The provisional deal introduces lower import quotas by limiting tariff-free import volumes to 18.3 million tonnes a year: a 47% reduction compared with 2024 steel quotas. It would also apply a 50% customs duty (instead of the current 25%) to imports above the quota and to steel goods not covered by it.

The aim is to equip the EU to counter the negative trade-related effects of global overproduction on the EU steel market once the current safeguards, in place since 2018, expire on 30 June 2026.

Improved traceability

The draft regulation seeks to strengthen the traceability of imported steel products by clarifying the evidence to be provided by importers on the origin of their steel. Members ensured that the Commission will have to take into account the origin of steel when assigning the annual quotas.

Members insisted on the need for an early revision of the new regulation and to adjust its scope if necessary to ensure adequate protection of the EU steel sector. The first review…