Re-rollers, coil processors form group to protect EU imports

A consortium has been established to represent the interests of European primary and secondary users of hot rolled coils, with “the aim of protecting their freedom to source these products from third countries”, according to a note sent to Platts by the Italian steel distribution association Assofermet.

For the first time in such a consortium, the group includes re-rollers, strip processors, traders and importers. About 15 companies are understood to have signed up so far, with more on the way.

The consortium in the note expressed “their firm opposition to the risk of foreclosing the European market to imports, which would have disastrous consequences for the European steel users and downstream industries”.

The group – so far un-named – has been established after the recently initiated anti-dumping case against imports of HRC from Brazil, Iran, Russia, Ukraine and Serbia, on top of the investigation already started against China in February.

“The consortium will gather the views and grounds of its members, which consist of undertakings of different sizes and active in different markets, with the aim of conveying them to the competent authorities. Moreover, the consortium will provide assistance to the undertakings concerned regarding the possible implications resulting from the ongoing anti-dumping proceeding”, the note explained.

The consortium is represented by the Brussels-based law firm Van Bael & Bellis.

— Annalisa Villa