[SMM Iron & Steel] Italy's Assofermet Warns EU Safeguard Measures and CBAM Threaten Downstream Steel Sector

Published: Jun 4, 2026 14:45
Italy's metallurgical and steel association, Assofermet, has issued a stark warning regarding the severe impact of the European Union's upcoming trade defense mechanisms on downstream processors and distributors. With the current steel safeguard regime set to expire on July 1, 2026, new provisions will introduce a strict annual duty-free quota of approximately 18.3 million metric tons (mt) for steel imports, and any volumes exceeding this cap will face a punitive 50% duty. Coupled with the mandatory origin tracing for steel melting and pouring, and the full implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) since January 1, 2026, these policies disproportionately favor upstream producers. Assofermet argues that this unbalanced protection will trigger surging raw material costs and reduced sourcing options for the downstream supply chain, which could ultimately suppress overall European steel demand and erode the continent's manufacturing competitiveness on the global stage.

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