CBM criticizes British steel companies' decision to reduce quotas and supply chain risks

The Confederation of British Metalworking (CBM), representing more than 200 companies in the UK steel sector, has issued a serious warning over the government's latest protective measures against steel. The industry body fears that sudden changes will lead to severe disruption of the supply chain, delays in delivery, and potential job losses, putting manufacturers at risk.

Quota reduction and sudden enforcement

The UK government recently abolished the Office of Commercial Remedies (TRA), reducing protection quotas from 70 to just 15 percent for some countries.More importantly, the implementation date has been postponed to July 1, instead of the recommended TRA of early October.

This drastic change has already caused port delays, import suspensions, and delivery disruptions across supply chains. CBM members have reported delivery delays of at least four weeks, with some vessels being diverted to alternative ports, resulting in higher costs and logistical challenges.

CBM position

Stephen Morley, president of CBM, argued that safeguards designed to protect domestic steel producers instead create devastating consequences for refineries.

Morley emphasized that TRA's initial schedule for October would have given producers time to prepare, while early execution caused a "domino effect." He added that companies already under economic pressure are now facing