On 24 February 2026, the European Commission confirmed the start of trilogue negotiations on the upcoming EU steel measure aimed at addressing the negative effects of global overcapacity. Maroš Šefčovič represented the Commission in the first round of discussions with the European Parliament and the Council.
The proposed regulation is intended to replace the current steel safeguard measure, which expires on 1 July 2026. The objective is to ensure continuity of protection for the EU steel market while adapting the framework to evolving global conditions.
According to the Commission, the new measure would:
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Reduce tariff-free import volumes to 18.3 million tonnes per year, representing a 47% reduction compared to 2024 quota levels;
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Increase out-of-quota duties to 50%;
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Apply to all origins except EEA countries;
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Introduce a “melt & pour” requirement to strengthen traceability and transparency in the EU steel supply chain.
The proposal responds to what the Commission describes as unsustainable levels of global steel overcapacity, projected to reach 721 million tonnes by 2027 — approximately five times the EU’s annual steel consumption. The measure is presented as a means to protect the EU’s industrial base, support decarbonisation objectives, and safeguard an estimated 2.5 million jobs linked to steel production.
Trilogue negotiations between the Commission, the European Parliament and the Council will focus on finalising the legal text in time for the new framework to enter into force by 1 July 2026.
The Commission has indicated that the measure is designed to remain WTO-compatible and will be accompanied by continued engagement with international partners on collective solutions to global overcapacity.
Further details are available here: policy.trade.ec.europa.eu
