The European Union has introduced a new steel protection framework to address global overcapacity, strengthen the competitiveness of European steel producers and improve the traceability of imported steel. The new regulation has applied since 1 July 2026, replacing the previous EU steel safeguard mechanism.

For businesses importing steel into the EU, the changes go beyond import quotas and duties. New requirements also apply to demonstrating the country where steel was originally melted and poured, making accurate product documentation an important part of customs compliance.

Key changes to EU steel import measures

The new framework introduces a revised Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) system designed to limit the impact of excess global steel production on the European market.

The main changes include:

• Reduced import quotas: The volume of steel that can enter the EU under duty-free quotas has been reduced.
• Higher duties above quota limits: Imports exceeding the applicable quota are subject to a 50% duty.
• Greater quota flexibility: Unused quotas can be carried over between quarters within the same calendar year, subject to the applicable rules.
• Stricter traceability requirements: Importers must provide information on the country where the steel was melted and poured.

These measures are intended to protect the EU steel industry while maintaining access to steel for European manufacturers and other downstream industries.

Mandatory proof of ‘Melt and Pour’

Since 1 October 2026, importers of steel products covered by the EU Steel Regulation must declare the country where the steel was melted and poured. This requirement helps customs authorities verify the origin of the steel production process and prevent circumvention of the measures.

Importers must generally support this declaration with a Mill Test Certificate (MTC) containing both the country of ‘melt and pour’ and the heat number of the imported steel.

Where the certificate does not contain the required information, or no certificate is available, other specified documents may temporarily be accepted as supplementary or standalone evidence, provided they contain the necessary information. These documents may include:

• Invoices and delivery notes
• Quality certificates
• Implemented purchase orders or contracts
• Long-term supplier declarations
• Production and cost-accounting records
• Customs documents from the exporting country
• Commercial correspondence and production descriptions

This transitional arrangement applies until 30 September 2027. From 1 October 2027, the listed alternative documents will only be accepted as supplementary evidence to a Mill Test Certificate.

Importers should therefore review their existing documentation processes and work with suppliers to ensure the required information is available before goods arrive.

Why the new rules matter

Steel is a strategically important material for European manufacturing, infrastructure, energy and defence. However, persistent global overcapacity and trade restrictions in other markets have increased pressure on European producers.

The new framework aims to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the EU steel industry, support investment in decarbonisation and reduce the risk of trade diversion.

For importers, the measures may have a direct impact on customs costs, supplier selection and shipment planning. Imports exceeding the applicable quota may incur substantial additional duties, while incomplete or inconsistent documentation can complicate customs clearance.

How can importers prepare?

Businesses importing steel into the EU should take the following steps:

• Review product classifications: Check whether imported products fall within the scope of the new Steel Regulation and identify the applicable customs codes.
• Monitor quota availability: Assess whether shipments may exceed the relevant tariff-rate quotas and result in additional duties.
• Obtain the required evidence: Request Mill Test Certificates that clearly identify the country of ‘melt and pour’ and the relevant heat number.
• Check supplier readiness: Confirm that suppliers can provide accurate, consistent and timely documentation.
• Review internal procedures: Update customs workflows to capture the required country information and supporting evidence.
• Assess financial exposure: Consider the potential impact of additional duties on landed costs, pricing and supply chain decisions.

Stay ahead of EU steel import requirements

The new EU steel framework combines trade protection measures with stricter traceability requirements. Importers should ensure that they understand the rules applicable to their products, monitor quota conditions and prepare the required documentation.

Early preparation can help businesses reduce the risk of unexpected duties, customs delays and compliance issues as the requirements evolve.

SGS e-Customs can support businesses in understanding changing customs requirements and assessing their potential impact on international trade operations.