EU Slashes Steel Imports and Doubles Tariffs to Shield Industry from Cheap Chinese Steel

The European Union has reached a landmark agreement to nearly halve the volume of steel imports allowed into the bloc and double tariffs on excess shipments to 50%. This move is aimed at protecting the EU's struggling steel industry from a surge of cheap imports, particularly from China, and to address global steel overcapacity.

The new rules will sharply reduce duty-free quotas and impose stricter import controls, affecting exporters from countries like the UK and Switzerland. EU officials say these measures are vital for Europe's industrial strength and strategic autonomy, but they may also spark trade tensions.

The changes are set to take effect from July 2026, with the goal of revitalizing the domestic steel sector.