EU Tightens Steel Import Rules, Halving Duty-Free Quotas from July 1

The European Union is set to introduce a "shield" for its steel sector, with new regulations taking effect on July 1. This measure will significantly tighten import rules, reducing the volume of steel that can enter the EU without incurring customs duties.

Under the new regulations, duty-free imports for 26 categories of steel products will be reduced by an average of 47% compared to the previous safeguard regime. The revised rules will permit a total of 18.3 million tons of steel to enter the EU duty-free each year. Any imports that surpass this annual limit will be subjected to a substantial 50% tariff.

Furthermore, the allocation of these duty-free quotas will be structured to favor specific trade partners. Half of the 18.3 million tons, amounting to 9.15 million tons, will be exclusively assigned to countries with which the EU has established free trade agreements. This move aims to balance trade relationships while protecting the domestic steel industry from excessive foreign competition.