Trade EU Parliament votes in favor of stricter protective measures on steel
The European Parliament wants to protect the European market from global steel overcapacity. On Tuesday, it approved a corresponding draft for stricter import rules. The measure also applies to Switzerland.
19.05.2026, 13:43
SDA
The measure would almost halve the current duty-free quotas for steel imports. Duties of 50 percent would be levied on steel outside the quotas. These duties currently amount to 25 percent.
The protective measure would apply to all third countries with the exception of the countries of the European Economic Area (EEA). Switzerland had argued unsuccessfully in Brussels for an exemption.
According to the European Commission, the new measures are in line with the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The Commission is currently in talks with over 20 partners to negotiate new quotas. This also includes Switzerland.
The new rules are due to come into force on July 1, 2026. This still requires the formal approval of the member states.
