The European Union introduced new measures on 1 July 2026 to protect the European steel industry from the effects of global overcapacity. The new regulation replaces the previous steel safeguard measures and brings significant changes for importers, manufacturers, and companies using steel products within their supply chains.

Among the most important changes is a substantial reduction in the volume of duty-free steel imports into the European Union. Annual tariff quotas have been set at 18.3 million tonnes, representing a decrease of approximately 47% compared to the quota levels in 2024. At the same time, the duty on imports exceeding the allocated quotas has been increased from 25% to 50%.

The "Melt and Pour" requirement is intended to improve the traceability of steel origin and prevent the circumvention of trade protection measures through the processing of products in third countries. It represents another step by the EU towards greater transparency within steel supply chains.

What should importers pay attention to?

Companies importing steel and selected steel products should pay close attention to the correct customs classification of goods, monitoring the use of tariff quotas, proving the origin of materials, and complying with new production traceability requirements. The new rules may affect import costs as well as supply chain planning, particularly for goods sourced from third countries.

Information for our clients

As part of our information service, we continuously monitor legislative developments in international trade and inform our clients about changes that may affect their import and export operations. We therefore recommend that companies importing steel, steel semi-finished products, or products containing steel assess the impact of the new measures on their business processes and verify whether their suppliers are prepared to meet the "Melt and Pour" requirements.

Source: Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic