What specific percentage cuts to tariff-free steel import quotas is the EU planning, and what has the UK steel industry warned will be the consequence?

The EU is planning to cut overall tariff-free imports of steel from non-EU countries by 47% compared to 2024 levels, effective 1 July. The UK steel industry has warned these new quota plans would have 'devastating' consequences.

How do the UK’s proposed steel import quotas for the EU compare to previous levels, and what specific product categories are most severely affected?

According to Eurofer’s letter, the UK’s provisional quotas would reduce the EU’s tariff-free exports to just 9% of previous hot coil imports, 4% of tin mill, and 3% of merchant bars; organic coated products would fall by 80%, rebar steel by 45%, and steel rails by 38%.

UK to challenge EU over ‘devastating’ plans to almost halve tariff-free steel import quotas

Jun 4, 2026

UK Business Secretary Peter Kyle will meet EU officials to dispute new steel import quotas that could slash tariff-free access by nearly half. Both sides fear economic damage and retaliatory measures as they implement independent safeguard regimes against Chinese competition.

theguardian

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UK to challenge EU over ‘devastating’ plans to almost halve tariff-free steel import quotas

UK to challenge EU over ‘devastating’ plans to almost halve tariff-free steel import quotas

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