The draft regulation, proposed by the European Commission and introducing new measures to replace measures to protect steel imports into the EU, has provoked a sharp reaction from Assofermet, an association representing Italian companies in the trade, distribution and processing of steel and non-ferrous metals, which describes it as a real "steel trap" for distributors and processing companies.
According to the association, the introduction of a 50% duty once quotas for certain categories of goods are exhausted, which, combined with a general reduction in import quotas, clearly indicates the intention to close the European market to imports from non-EU countries. Such measures, Assofermet stresses, will lead to the creation of a "captive market", which will inevitably cause price increases and serious consequences for European production, which is traditionally export-oriented and is already under strong competitive pressure.The Association also notes that these new restrictions will complement existing or discussed anti-dumping duties, for example, on cold-rolled coils, as well as the upcoming entry into force of the CBAM (Carbon Boundary Regulation Mechanism) from January 2026, making any alternative supply route virtually impossible. "Once again," Assofermet said, "the European Commission completely ignores distribution, service centers and processing companies, despite the fact that they represent the beating heart of European manufacturing and exports." The Association confirmed that, recognizing the strategic value of the European steel industry, its protection cannot lead to excessive protectionism, which will only lead to "delocalization of production and fragmentation of European industry." proposals for the post-enforcement phase, including a single quarterly quota for the entire EU, a mechanism for transferring unused quotas, and a reduced 25% duty in case quotas are exceeded.
At the time, the association warned that excessive import restrictions would have serious consequences for European production, already burdened by electricity costs and the introduction of CBAM. Thus, Assofermet's latest statement on October 8 continues in the same vein, reinforcing the warning that European industrial policy risks losing focus on competitiveness.Assofermet announced that it will continue to engage in dialogue with the Italian government and the European Commission to "protect the interests of the steel trade, distribution and processing sectors," calling for the opening of a table to discuss measures to stimulate consumption and demand for steel.
