EU steel defence: tougher tariffs in, Russian steel out
Renew Europe welcomes the support from an overwhelming majority when the committee for International Trade today adopted the report on protecting Europe's steel industry, led by Renew Europe MEP Karin Karlsbro (Liberalerna, Sweden). This decisive action safeguards Europe's steel sector, crucial for our competitiveness, economic security, and defence capabilities. As the world's third-largest steelmaker, the EU faces severe challenges from global steel overcapacity and unfair subsidies.
With current European safeguards expiring in June 2026, the proposed regulation introduces stricter rules for import. Import quotas will be reduced by 47%, while tariffs on steel exceeding these quotas will double from 25% to 50%.
Special provisions address geopolitical realities and the need for decarbonisation. The rapporteur Karin Karlsbro ensured that a stronger reference to the special situation of Ukraine and a complete ban on imports of steel melted in Russia or Belarus were included in the final report.
These measures respond to protectionism from our trading partners while encouraging fair trade and asserting our values against Russian aggression.
EP rapporteur Karin Karlsbro said :
"Steel production is a strategic priority for Europe. In times of geopolitical uncertainty, the strength of our steel industry is central to Europe's resilience. Today, we have said yes to continued tariff-free trade with Ukraine and no to Russian steel imports into the EU. This is a clear demonstration of European resolve."
Karin KarlsbroRenew Europe MEP, Sweden, Liberalerna
Given the urgency of this file, the negotiating mandate was also adopted by the INTA Committee, enabling interinstitutional negotiations to begin swiftly.