European risks of the metal and steel supply chain, which are entering a severe crisis phase due to new measures in the EU that came into force in 2026. This warning comes from Assofermet, the Italian national association of companies involved in the trade, distribution and processing of steel, metals, department and equipment, which today. Operators.
According to the association, the pressure arises from a combination of several factors: the entry into force of the Carbon adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), the expiration of current protected measures and the possible introduction of a new replacement mechanism, as well as rules of origin such as the so-called "molten and poured" principle. A scenario that, if confirmed, will structurally affect repeat rollers, service centers, processors, and traders.
Among the main critical issues highlighted by Assofermet:
- regulatory uncertainty, with little clarity for the future, which is related to steel imports; 0:5)
- . In advance, without endangering their budgets as early as 2026;
- weak domestic demand and structurally low consumption, creating an additional risk of loss of competitiveness for European production;
- competitive pressure from non-EU countries that are not subject to equivalent measures, making it difficult for European companies in order to maintain their brands in International markets. of safeguard measures to aluminum, which so far has been excluded, further worsening the situation.
Assofermet stressed that these dynamics could lead to a drastic reduction in steel and aluminum imports, with "devastating effects" on EU manufacturing, already under strain from US tariffs and a weak macroeconomical environment.
"The sustainability and survival of entire industrial sectors are currently seriously threatened," the association said, recalling that on July 29 it sent an official letter to the European Commission and the Italian government calling for an urgent review of the discussed policy. In conclusion, the goal, the goal should be to find "a balance between environmental sustainability, competitiveness, and protection of the entire European metal and steel supply chain."
