Spanish steel association Unesid has expressed concern about the recent rise in energy costs in Europe and its impact on the competitiveness of the industry, Kallanish notes.
The organisation points out that energy markets have been marked by high volatility in recent days, driven by the current international geopolitical context.
“We are confident that the European Council will adopt measures aimed at mitigating the impact of high energy prices on EU industry at its next meeting on 19 and 20 March,” Unesid states. At the same time, it hopes the Spanish government will promote structural measures to guarantee electro-intensive industries stable access to energy at competitive costs, in line with the policies implemented by other European countries.
Unesid is also concerned about developments in the international geopolitical situation and the possible impact on world trade. Spanish steelmakers stress the importance of preserving the normal functioning of strategic maritime routes, especially transit through the Strait of Hormuz, considered a key route for the global transport of energy and raw materials.
“Any prolonged disruption to this route could cause disruptions in global supply chains, with potential consequences for numerous industrial sectors, including the steel value chain,” Unesid concludes.
