The Koninklijke Staalfederatie has highlighted concerns that differences in the application of customs rules across EU Member States are creating an uneven playing field for stainless steel importers.
In a publication dated 22 October, the Dutch federation reports that feedback from its members points to differences in the handling of import duties and quotas, including in Italy and Spain compared with the Netherlands. Importers in some Member States may have greater opportunities to access available quotas, potentially leaving Dutch companies facing higher import costs.
The federation warns that the consequences could extend beyond individual importers, affecting the wider steel supply chain, manufacturing businesses and the Netherlands’ position as an import hub.
The Staalfederatie has raised its members’ concerns with Dutch business organisations FME and VNO-NCW and submitted a complaint concerning differences in the application of import rules. It is also pursuing clarification through the Dutch customs–business consultation platform, Overleg Douane Bedrijfsleven (ODB).
Together with its members, the federation is compiling a dossier covering the products and metal types concerned, trade volumes and financial impacts. Around 26 product groups are expected to be examined.
For Europe’s steel distribution and trading sector, these concerns underline the importance of transparent procedures and consistent customs implementation throughout the EU. Common European rules must deliver fair and predictable conditions for businesses across the Single Market.
Read the original publication by the Koninklijke Staalfederatie (in Dutch).
