[SMM Steel] EU sets new steel import quotas at 18.35 mln mt with higher safeguard tariff

Published: Apr 28, 2026 14:43

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[SMM Steel] European Union announced new steel import regulations effective July 1, 2026, replacing existing safeguards. Total tariff-rate quotas (TRQ) are set at 18.35 mln mt annually, with duty-free access within quotas and a sharply higher 50% tariff applied beyond quotas (vs. 25% previously). The system will be managed quarterly, with carry-over flexibility in the first year. Key allocations include HRC (~5.2 mln mt) and coated steel products. The measure applies broadly to third countries to curb import surges and protect domestic producers, while also signaling a gradual phase-out of Russian steel imports by 2028.

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