The European Union’s new steel safeguard regime is set to enter into force on July 1, 2026, following the expiry of the current safeguard measures on June 30, 2026, according to the latest draft regulation.
The post-safeguard framework is designed to ensure continuity and predictability for the EU steel market, while allowing flexibility to respond to changing market conditions.
Under the proposal, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein will be exempt in line with the European Economic Area agreement, while all other third-country suppliers will be subject to the new regime.
The EU Council has confirmed that adjusted tariff-rate quotas will be capped between 15.2 million mt and 22.2 million mt. In addition, the regulation allows unused quarterly quotas to be carried over to the next quarter, remaining available for 20 working days, providing greater flexibility for importers.
The European Parliament’s International Trade Committee is expected to vote on the draft at the end of January 2026, paving the way for inter-institutional negotiations between the Parliament, Council and Commission.
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