German steel manufacturers are urging the European Commission to swiftly implement [1] the EU Steel Action Plan, stressing its importance in safeguarding the industry against growing global competition, tightening environmental regulations, and economic uncertainty.
In response to tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, the EU steel industry is now calling for stronger trade protection measures and the retention of scrap materials within the region. Leading steel producers, including Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe and Salzgitter, warn that delays in adopting these policies could severely impact Europe’s steel sector, jeopardizing thousands of jobs and increasing dependence on cheaper imports from non-European markets.
The EU Steel Action Plan seeks to protect European steelmakers by introducing trade defense mechanisms, offering financial incentives for green steel production, and enforcing fair procurement policies that prioritize domestic steel suppliers. Industry leaders emphasize the need for swift implementation, advocating for binding minimum quotas on European steel content in large-scale projects to secure long-term sustainability.
With the steel sector employing thousands across Germany, workers and industry representatives are pressing for urgent intervention to prevent plant closures and economic downturns. Eurometal highlighted the US steel market’s dependency on imports, with 25-30% of its supply coming from foreign sources. Analysts warn that protectionist trade policies could inadvertently weaken American competitiveness—a consequence that contradicts the intended objectives of the tariffs. This issue remains central to ongoing transatlantic trade negotiations.
Dennis Grim, spokesperson for the TKSE Executive Board, underscored the urgency of implementing the plan, stating, “The current geopolitical situation has made the adoption of these policies even more critical.” He further emphasized the importance of reinforcing domestic markets through mandatory minimum quotas for European steel in both private and public procurement sectors.
As EU policymakers continue deliberations, steelmakers remain hopeful for firm commitments to safeguard the industry’s future. In response to the latest US tariffs, the EU is preparing to introduce countermeasures, scheduled for April 15 and May 15.
Sources:
[1] German steelmakers call for rapid implementation of the EU Steel Action Plan https://gmk.center/en/news/german-steelmakers-call-for-rapid-implementation-of-the-eu-steel-action-plan/