Wales First Minister Eluned Morgan has called on the UK government to take immediate policy action to safeguard the steel sector, following talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Morgan emphasized that steel remains a foundation industry supporting construction, infrastructure, manufacturing and transport, noting that Wales hosts a significant share of UK steelmaking capacity. She stressed the need for strong national backing as the sector undergoes transformation, including Tata Steel’s transition toward electric arc furnace production and developments at the 7 Steel facility.
According to the Welsh government, the sector continues to face high electricity costs, global overcapacity and growing trade uncertainty. Officials warned that potential changes in EU trade measures pose risks, given that the EU remains the UK steel industry’s largest trading partner.
The Welsh authorities also highlighted the need for replacement safeguards after current UK steel protections expire in June 2026, warning that the absence of new measures could expose producers to dumped imports.
In addition, Wales reiterated calls for tariff-free quota access for UK steel exports to the US, noting that remaining US tariffs continue to burden exporters.
The forthcoming UK Steel Strategy, expected in March, is seen as critical for providing long-term policy clarity, supporting decarbonisation investments and ensuring competitiveness.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group
