Imports of sheet piling into Europe remain at high volumes but low prices, and should be subject to stricter limitation by the European Commission, finds ArcelorMittal Europe.
According to the group, EU restrictions have not addressed the full challenge faced by European sheet pile producers. “Low-priced imports imported into the EU – predominantly from China – now represent a real threat to the future of European sheet pile manufacturers,” the company tells Kallanish. Current EU safeguards will last until 30 June 2026. “The next tariff tool will be tighter with reduced quotas, [but needs] to follow quickly,” it adds.
According to sources at the company, China can ship 28,000 tonnes/quarter of sheet piling duty-free into the EU. Imports of sheet piles from China rose from 17,000t in 2020 to 41,000t in 2023, mainly reaching the Benelux countries and Germany.
China is therefore able to supply 150% of the quota by paying the 25% duty, and is still competitive in Europe due to the low prices of its product. Sources suggest that
Chinese sheet piles, even with duty paid, are 15-20% cheaper than the average of EU producers.
European countries with demand for dykes, ports and flood protection are the main targets for sheet piling imports. According to ArcelorMittal, the Benelux countries taken together are the biggest market for sheet piles, constituting 31% of EU27 demand. Germany is the second-biggest market, accounting for 22% of EU27 demand.
A paramount factor is that Europe-made sheet piles have the lowest carbon footprint in the sector, the firm says. “But there is currently no strong incentive for customers to choose low carbon-emissions sheet piles,” meaning price remains the main factor of choice, it concludes.
Christian Koehl Germany
