Commission initiates review of steel safeguard to protect EU steel industry

The request is based on the challenging situation facing the EU steel sector, which has been exacerbated by an increase of global overcapacity, together with a continued decrease in EU demand for steel. The objective of the safeguard is to provide temporary relief to domestic industry, helping it to adapt to new market conditions and regain competitiveness. 

The Commission will carry out a detailed investigation until 31 March 2025. If the Commission deems it necessary, it will make a proposal to EU Member States, whose approval through a qualified majority vote will be required for any changes to take effect. Any decision resulting from this proceeding may become applicable as of 1 April 2025. This new review investigation will not impact the duration of the measure, which will remain in force until 30 June 2026.

Background 

The Commission introduced a provisional safeguard measure on imports of certain steel products in July 2018. The measure aimed to prevent economic damage for EU steel producers, given the risk of further import increases linked, inter alia, to the introduction of trade restrictions by the US on steel products (US Section 232 measure). The measure has been extended twice, most recently in June 2024. It will expire on 30 June 2026, when its duration will have reached the maximum eight years allowed under EU law and WTO rules. 

For more information

Notice of Initiation of steel safeguard review

EU safeguards