Publications » Position papers » A call for a more effective application of existing EU policy instruments and improvements where needed
A call for a more effective application of existing EU policy instruments and improvements where needed
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Globalisation of markets and industries intensifies the distorting effects of government policies that unfairly protect and support domestic markets and industries. Thus, the EU needs to address more effectively State-led distortions that are undermining the viability of traditional and innovative European industries, both at home and abroad. The EU needs to be more assertive in using – and where needed modifying – existing tools as well as developing new policy instruments to ensure a level playing field for EU industries while at the same time creating much needed leverage at the multilateral (WTO) level. The new Commission’s encouraging political objectives and orientations need to be endorsed and supported by the Council and the European Parliament and effectively implemented by the Commission.
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Brussels, 05 September 2024 – The latest developments in the steel sector and across critical value chains are worrying signs of a steady deterioration, endangering the survival and the transition of steelmakers and their key manufacturing customers in Europe, such as automotive. A Clean Industrial Deal including swift and radical measures in EU industrial, energy and trade policies, is the last chance to ensure Europe’s prosperity and shield European industry from cheap imports driven by third countries’ unfair trade practices, overcapacity and lower climate ambition, urges the European Steel Association.
Brussels, 25 July 2024 – Major indicators in the European steel market show a steeper-than-expected downward trend, further impacting the outlook for this year and the next. Poor demand conditions, driven by ongoing factors such as high energy prices, persistent inflation, economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, are exacerbated by a manufacturing crisis affecting the largest steel-using sectors, including construction and automotive. According to EUROFER’s latest Economic and Steel Market Outlook, apparent steel consumption is further deteriorating. After a slump (-3.1%) in the first quarter of 2024, its rebound for the full year has been revised downwards (to +1.4% from +3.2%), as well as for 2025 (+4.1% from +5.6%). Similarly, output in steel-using sectors, after a decline in the first quarter (-1.9%), is projected to experience a deeper-than-expected recession (-1.6% from -1%). A recovery is anticipated only in 2025 (+2.3%). Steel imports continue to show historically high shares (27%).
Third quarter 2024 report. Data up to, and including, first quarter 2024