ArcelorMittal calls for immediate enforcement of EU’s new tariff quota
ArcelorMittal has reiterated its call for the urgent implementation of the new tariff quota announced by the European Commission in October 2025.
The company emphasized that the regulation is critical for the survival of the European steel industry and the long-term security of the manufacturing sector. Record levels of steel imports into Europe are putting significant pressure on EU steel producers.
With the implementation of the new tariff quota, ArcelorMittal aims to assure producers and distributors of uninterrupted steel supply. The company is preparing to increase production at its facilities across Europe and anticipates demand shifts that the tariff quota regulation may create. Through these measures, ArcelorMittal will be able to respond swiftly to customer demand, maintain supply chain stability, and simultaneously contribute to employment and economic value in Europe.
Geert Van Poelvoorde, CEO of ArcelorMittal Europe, acknowledged that some steel users have concerns about the new trade tool’s potential effects, such as supply shortages, price volatility, and access to specialized products. Van Poelvoorde emphasized that steel produced in Europe is sufficient to meet demand, stating, “We are ready to increase production accordingly.”
ArcelorMittal: EU’s proposal for stronger trade defense measures crucial for steel industry survival
Global steel giant ArcelorMittal has strongly endorsed the European Commission’s proposal to replace current EU safeguard measures with strengthened tariff quotas on steel imports. The company described the move as critical for the survival of Europe’s steel industry, which is facing mounting pressure from low-priced imports, shrinking demand, and weak economic conditions.
Commenting on the proposal, CEO Aditya Mittal said that he is sincerely relieved by the proposals that have been announced to support the European steel industry. He thanked the European Commission and the member states for understanding the criticality of the situation and acting appropriately and decisively. The European steel industry and manufacturing more broadly can have a much stronger future now and today marks a step in that direction, Mittal added.
Geert Van Poelvoorde, CEO of ArcelorMittal Europe, echoed these sentiments, noting that the proposal has brought a sense of relief across the European steel sector.
“ArcelorMittal and the European steel producers have been heard. Today, we can breathe a sigh of relief, with the European Commission’s announcement of the new, strengthened tariff quota proposal,” Van Poelvoorde stated, adding, “We thank the commissioners for the time and attention they have taken to understand the challenges facing our industry. We will continue to press for a swift introduction of the new tariff quota, in recognition of the severity of the challenges facing the steel industry in Europe.”
Link with CBAM and the Steel Action Plan
ArcelorMittal also stressed the importance of aligning trade defense instruments with climate policy, specifically the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), whose revised framework is expected by the end of 2025.
“We hope that the trade proposal unveiled today is an indication that our concerns will be reflected in the further measures to be announced in line with the Steel and Metals Action Plan,” Van Poelvoorde noted.
He said that his company believes that a strong tariff quota regime, combined with an effective CBAM, will be essential to restore a level playing field, curb market distortions, and support Europe’s steel competitiveness globally.
