Steel exports from the European Union to the United States decreased by 30% in the second half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This trend is a direct result of the introduction of American tariffs of 50% on steel from the EU.
This is reported by Finway
Impact of Tariffs on Industry and Threat to European Producers
According to the European Steel Association EUROFER, the sharp decline in exports poses serious risks for the EU steel industry and its customers. The introduction of new US tariffs on products with high steel content, particularly in the machinery and equipment manufacturing sectors, further intensifies pressure on European exporters.
“The drop in exports over six months is a clear signal of harm to European producers and their customers,” emphasized EUROFER’s Director General Axel Eggert.
Prospects for a Trade Agreement and Risks of Indirect Imports
The issue of tariffs will be central during discussions on the upcoming trade agreement between the EU and the US, which will take place at the meeting of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade on February 24. The steel industry insists on the need to achieve a mutual and predictable agreement, supported by effective response mechanisms in the event that high tariffs remain in place.
Particular concern is raised by the increase in indirect steel imports through finished products. According to worldsteel, in the last decade, steel imports as part of goods to the EU have risen from 96 million tons in 2014 to 121 million tons in 2024, while indirect exports from China have nearly doubled in five years to 137 million tons.
Meanwhile, the current EU protective measures on steel imports will expire in June. Therefore, a new trade mechanism must be agreed upon by July 1. Industry representatives emphasize that it should cover not only rolled products but also steel-containing goods to avoid redirecting global excess capacities to the EU market.