As a result of a major shake-up in the German steel sector, Thyssenkrupp Steel, the country's largest producer, has officially terminated its membership in the German Steel Federation Wirtschaftsvereinigung Stahl (WV Stahl), which took effect on December 31, 2026, according to a report by the German newspaper The Pioneer. The exit reflects not only financial strains, but also a strategic recalibration as the company seeks to make more efficient use of staff and financial resources during the ongoing restructuring.
The sources said they did not believe that the company's exit during negotiations with Indian investor Jindal was a coincidence. Thyssenkrupp AG is in talks with Jindal Steel International regarding the potential sale of its steel business to Thyssenkrupp Steel, as previously reported. SteelOrbis.
The move comes at a time when Germany's steel industry is facing increasing economic pressures, with rising energy prices, foreign competition and uncertain government support. The loss of the largest member deals a serious blow to the reputation of WV Stahl as the single political voice of the industry.
Thyssenkrupp's decision highlights the growing divisions in Germany's struggling steel industry. Tekin Nasikkol, Chairman of the General Production Council of ThyssenKrupp Steel, described the current situation as "catastrophic."
According to Thyssenkrupp, the decision "does not mean a departure from industry-wide cooperation," adding that it continues to support WV Stahl's position on trade protection, energy pricing and the development of environmentally friendly steel. In addition, the parent company Thyssenkrupp AG is considering following the example of its steel subsidiary and also withdrawing from the association.
