Overview

• The European Commission plans to present a steel package on October 7 that would cut import quotas by nearly half and levy a 50% tariff once those limits are reached, according to reports based on EU documents and briefings.
• Draft texts describe product‑specific quotas set from historical averages, potential country‑specific limits, and a review every five years starting in July 2031 to track overcapacity trends.
• The move is designed to replace the EU’s temporary safeguard that currently adds a 25% tariff after quotas and expires in June 2026.
• Officials frame the step as protection against underpriced imports, particularly from China, with industry group Eurofer calling it a first real step while urging broader support; Tata Steel Europe warned core manufacturing supply chains need stronger barriers.
• EU sources say the package is intended as a starting point for detailed talks with Washington, as trade chiefs have reopened contacts and some European leaders link steel policy to defense readiness.