The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is reaching another important milestone. On 7 April 2026, just under a month from now, the European Commission will publish the first price of CBAM certificates.
CBAM aims to create a level playing field by applying a carbon price to certain goods imported into the EU, including steel, aluminium, cement, and fertilisers. This mechanism prevents carbon leakage and supports the EU’s climate objectives.
As of 2026, CBAM has entered its financial phase, where importers are required to purchase certificates corresponding to the emissions embedded in their imports. For 2026, certificate prices will be calculated quarterly, based on the average price of EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) allowances. From 2027 onwards, prices will be calculated weekly.
The European Commission will publish the CBAM certificate prices for 2026 on the following dates:
• 7 April 2026
• 6 July 2026
• 5 October 2026
• 4 January 2027
This development gives importers clarity on the cost implications of CBAM and marks another step towards the full operational implementation of the mechanism.
