The German steel giant Thyssenkrupp has decided to completely halt the production of grain-oriented electrical steel at its site in Isberg, located in northern France. The company cites the excessive influx of imported products into the European Union market as the reason for this move, which creates serious difficulties for local manufacturers.
This is reported by Finway
Main Reasons for the Production Suspension
Since January 2026, the facility had been operating at significantly reduced capacity—only 50% of its design capacity. Now, Thyssenkrupp has announced a complete cessation of production activities in Isberg from June to September. This action puts around 1,200 jobs in France and Germany at risk.
“The European market for grain-oriented electrical steel is under significant pressure, and this product is critically important for energy infrastructure, particularly for transformers and other electrical equipment.”
Demands on the EU and the Future of the Market
Thyssenkrupp emphasizes that the import of grain-oriented electrical steel is still not covered by the planned measures of the European Union to protect the steel market. This refers to the EU initiative to reduce duty-free import quotas for steel by nearly half and to impose a 50% tariff on supplies exceeding the quota. However, grain-oriented electrical steel is not included in these restrictions, which, according to the company, significantly undermines the competitiveness of European manufacturers.
The company also reported ongoing negotiations with the European Commission and expressed hope for the swift implementation of effective protective mechanisms to support workers and stabilize the market situation.