Nippon Steel Slovakia management met with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič to discuss the impact of the EU’s new trade measures on establishing a fair steel market in Europe.
The meeting was attended by Nippon Steel Slovakia President and CEO Katsuhiro Miyamoto, Chief Operating Officer Isao Takenami, Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer Miroslav Kiraľvarga, and Government Relations Director Michal Pintér. The company’s management expressed appreciation for Šefčovič’s efforts to implement the new trade measures.
During the meeting, it was emphasized that the new tariff rate quota (TRQ) regime, which has been in effect since July 1, should achieve its objectives of returning the market share of imports to 2013 levels and increasing capacity utilization in the EU steel industry. It was stated that high import volumes, accumulated inventories and stagnant demand have so far prevented a significant shift toward European-produced steel.
However, the reopening of previously closed capacities in the EU and plans for significant investments in technologies such as electric arc furnaces were cited as indications of renewed investment potential in the European steel industry. The need to continue efforts to ensure the effective implementation of trade measures and establish a predictable regulatory framework was also emphasized.
As part of their meetings, Nippon Steel Slovakia management also met with European Parliament Vice President Martin Hojsík. Discussions focused on the company’s plans to decarbonize its operations in Košice and on energy costs. Legislative initiatives aimed at supporting and accelerating the industry’s transition were also discussed.
Legislation to support the industry and accelerate its transition was also addressed during a meeting with Axel Eggert, Director General of the European Steel Association (EUROFER).
