Germany-based steelmaker Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe has called on the European Commission to take tougher measures to protect domestic structure-oriented electrical steel production from rising low-cost imports from Asia, according to a Reuters report.
The company welcomed the launch of the EU protective investigation in this segment , calling it a necessary first step.
Safeguard measures seen as insufficient
According to Thyssenkrupp, structure-oriented electrical steel is currently not covered by the broader EU protection framework, which includes plans to reduce quotas on duty-free imports and the introduction of a 50 percent duty on volumes exceeding these quotas. The company stressed that swift and effective action is needed to ensure fair competition and protect European industry.
Grain-oriented electrical steel plays a critical role in power grids and energy infrastructure, making it a key material for the energy transition. As demand for electrical steel continues to grow, maintaining domestic production capacity is seen as strategically important for Europe.
Import pressure leads to production cuts
Thyssenkrupp recently extended production cuts at its Isberg plant in northern France, citing a surge in imports described as "devastating" flood" , as previously reported by SteelOrbis.
The company warned that without additional trade protection, European producers will find it difficult to remain competitive in this segment.
Competitiveness challenges are intensifying
The rise of cheap imports is increasing pressure on domestic producers, raising concerns about job security and the retention of technological expertise in Europe.
Thyssenkrupp stressed that tougher trade measures are needed to keep industrial production competitive as the EU achieves its energy transition goals.
