European Commission unveiled the Steel and Metals Action Plan

The plan focuses on ensuring affordable energy access by supporting tax flexibility and promoting the increased use of renewable hydrogen to reduce production costs. To prevent carbon leakage, the Commission will strengthen CBAM with anti-circumvention measures and extend its scope to downstream steel and aluminum products.

In response to global overcapacity and unfair trade practices, the Commission will introduce new long-term steel safeguards and assess the implementation of a “melted and poured rule” to reinforce fair competition. Recycling targets for steel and aluminum will also be increased, with potential trade measures on metal scrap to ensure sustainable supply.

To support industrial decarbonization, the Commission has announced a €100 billion Industrial Decarbonisation Bank, with a €1 billion pilot auction in 2025 aimed at electrification and low-carbon steel production. Additionally, the plan emphasizes the protection of 2.6 million jobs in the steel and metals industry through labor policies that support fair transitions and skills development.

“The steel industry has always been a core engine for European prosperity. With today’s Action Plan, we are offering concrete solutions for a thriving European steel industry”, stated Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.