Eurofer continues to insist on steel quotas for certain countries

The European Steel Association Eurofer continues to believe that the rolled metal quota system, created as a protective measure, should be country-oriented rather than general, as discussed at a seminar in Brussels.

The quota system is in effect until February 2019, so the European Commission needs to decide to approve permanent measures by the end of 2018. Many sources believe that these measures are likely to remain in effect for another three years from 2019 inclusive.

Eurofer believes the measures are working well as quotas are gradually filled in line with expectations. The imports cause a slight disruption in the European market and the system brings some stability. According to Eurofer, the country focus system remains the best solution.

“We see the need for national quotas, at least for the main traditional exporters in the EU, balancing, for example, on Turkish exports, which are currently undermining the European market,” says Jereine Vermage, head of market analysis and economic research. “We believe there is a solid rationale for including additional quota administration from global to national. We're not the only ones asking for this; some exporting countries also support, in particular those that export from afar, having a logistics problem compared to neighboring countries. "

Steel imports from the EU28 increased by 10% year-on-year in the first nine months of 2018, accelerating growth in June-July as importers pushed higher volumes to Europe and buyers were speculative. As a result of a continued increase in imports and a further decline in exports. The EU trade deficit worsened significantly in the first eight months of 2018.