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Input for the consultation on the new circular economy action plan
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Steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world, playing a vital role as an enabler for transitioning to a CO2 neutral and circular economy. It is possible to recycle steel multiple times into same quality or even better quality steel, a permanent material. Steel inherent properties make it more versatile, durable and even separable than other materials. Thus, steel is a material permanently available to society, a “permanent material”.
However, notwithstanding the previous EU action plan on circular economy, there are still barriers which limit the contribution of the steel sector to the EU transition towards a circular economy. In the following paragraphs, EUROFER summarises its suggestions and proposals on how to support the initiatives contained in the roadmap and how to achieve the goals without hampering the industrial transition.
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Brussels, 1 October 2026 - The European Steel Association (EUROFER) has elected Geert Van Poelvoorde, Chairman of the Board of ArcelorMittal Europe Steel, as its new President. Taking office today, Mr Van Poelvoorde said stronger home markets across the steel value chain, secure access to export markets and a strong industrial base will be essential to delivering on the European Union’s ambitions for global competitiveness and strategic autonomy.
Brussels, 1 October 2026 - Europe’s steel market remains under significant pressure, with exports falling sharply, production at historic lows and demand expected to remain almost flat in 2026, according to the European Steel Association’s (EUROFER) latest Economic and Steel Market Outlook 2026-2027. EU steel exports to third countries fell by 20% in the first half of 2026, with declines across all major export destinations covered by the report. At the same time, crude steel production continued to falter, after reaching a historic low of 125.8 million tonnes in 2025, while apparent steel consumption is forecast to grow by just 0.1% in 2026, before increasing by 2.3% in 2027.
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