The European Commission has launched a targeted consultation to shape the future of safeguard measures for the EU steel sector. The aim is to gather feedback from industry stakeholders in order to develop effective follow-up measures in a timely manner. Businesses affected by the current framework are strongly encouraged to take part – the consultation is open until 18 August 2025.

Need for Action in the European Steel Sector

This consultation will inform a new legislative proposal, which is expected to be published by the third quarter of 2025. Input from economic operators will serve as the foundation for the proposal.

The current safeguard measure on steel imports was extended in 2024 for another two years and will expire on 30 June 2026. The instrument was originally introduced in 2019 to protect the European steel industry from trade diversion and sharp increases in imports that threatened market stability.

Economic Importance of the Steel Industry

The steel sector is a vital part of the European industrial landscape. With approximately 500 production sites across 22 EU Member States, it contributes around 80 billion euros annually to the EU’s GDP. In addition, it secures more than 2.6 million jobs along the entire value-added chain – from raw materials to finished products.

Why Your Input Matters

With this consultation, the European Commission aims to gather technically sound, practice-based input. Companies, industry associations, and other market players now have the opportunity to help shape the design of future safeguard measures.

 

Source: European Commission