Renew Europe welcomed the support of an overwhelming majority as the European Parliament Committee for International Trade adopted the report on protecting Europe’s steel industry, led by Karin Karlsbro MEP (Liberalerna, SE). 

This decisive action safeguards Europe’s steel sector, which is 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 imports. 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. In the report, 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. 

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.” 

Given the urgency of this file, the negotiating mandate was also adopted by the European Parliament Committee on International Trade, enabling interinstitutional negotiations to begin swiftly.Â