Commission initiates safeguard investigation into imports of alloys

The sector is facing exceptional challenges, as alloys imports into the EU have increased due to growing global overcapacity and the attractiveness of the EU’s open market, coupled with a rising number of trade-restrictive measures in other major markets. 

If the investigation confirms that the EU industry suffers serious injury or threat of injury because of increased imports, the Commission may propose safeguard measures, which would need to be supported by a qualified majority of EU Member States. The investigation shall be concluded within a maximum of nine months from the date of initiation. The EU can also impose provisional measures for a maximum of 200 days if the preliminary determination already provides clear evidence that increased imports have caused or are threatening to cause serious injury, or, in critical circumstances, where a delay of measures would cause irreparable damage.

The alloys sector is critical for the EU’s strategic autonomy and economic security: alloys are widely used to improve the strength, durability and quality of steel or aluminium, making them indispensable in industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace and defence.

For more information

Notice of Initiation

EU safeguards