The European Commission has initiated a review of the EU’s steel safeguard measure following a request from 13 member states. The request highlights the mounting challenges facing the EU steel sector, driven by increasing global overcapacity and a continued decline in domestic steel demand.
The safeguard measure aims to provide temporary relief to the EU steel industry, enabling it to adapt to evolving market conditions and regain competitiveness. The Commission’s investigation will continue until 31 March 2025. Should changes be deemed necessary, the Commission will propose adjustments that require approval by a qualified majority of EU member states. Any modifications could take effect from 1 April 2025.
This review will not affect the measure’s duration, which is set to remain in place until 30 June 2026. The safeguard measure was first introduced in July 2018 as a provisional response to protect EU steel producers from economic harm due to rising imports, particularly following the United States’ imposition of steel tariffs under Section 232. Since then, it has been extended twice, with the most recent extension granted in June 2024. Under EU law and WTO rules, the safeguard measure can remain in force for a maximum of eight years, expiring on 30 June 2026.
