Eurofer calls for fair competition in the steel industry globally and in the EU

„Steel must remain at the center of the EU’s competitiveness,” said Eurofer President Robrecht Himpe. On the occasion of the fifth edition of the „European Steel Day” that took place in Brussels.

It is the basis for investment, economic growth and jobs. In the European production chain, which contributes 80% of EU exports. „That is why EU policies must act firmly against the distortion of national state aid and unfair trade in steel to ensure competitive costs and a healthy steel industry,” he added.

Steel at the center of EU competitiveness – trade defence instruments

In 2014, steel demand in the EU increased by 3.9%. But the benefits were mostly reaped by imports. Imports of finished steel increased by about 20 percent in 2014. While deliveries to EU steelmakers saw an increase of only 2 percent. For 2015, steel demand in the EU is expected to grow slowly by 2% and by 2.5% in 2016. The main risk is a continued increase in steel imports into the EU. Himpe calls for effective and timely trade protection instruments in the EU by shortening time. In which provisional measures can also be imposed through significant levels of duties.

Massive excess steel capacities from China’s exports, approximately 93 million tons, have disrupted markets worldwide. A negative aspect is that this country does not meet the technical conditions required by the EU.

Also, Eurofer submitted an official complaint to the European Commission against the aid granted by the Italian state to the ILVA steel company in Taranto, which is currently under state control. Eurofer claims that around 2 billion euros allocated to the company by the Italian authorities are not compatible with the EU state aid regulations and the EU Treaty.

According to Eurofer, the biggest risks of the industry, in the medium and long term, are related to the cost impact of the carbon emissions trading system. Also, high energy prices. To ensure the competitiveness of the steel industry in Europe. The difference in energy prices between the EU and competing economies must be eliminated.

Article source: http://recyclingportal.eu/Archive/14487

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