AB Automobile Manufacturers Reacted to the Steel Protection Plan

Strong Response from Automobile Manufacturers to the Steel Sector

The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), based in Brussels, made statements regarding the European Commission's plan to protect the steel sector.

90% Steel Supply Rate

It was emphasized in the statement that automobile manufacturers source approximately 90% of their direct steel purchases from the EU.

Concerns and Proposed Solutions

Automobile manufacturers are closely monitoring the potential inflationary effects of the proposed protective measures on prices in Europe. Furthermore, it was stated that altering the current protective measures would be unbeneficial.

Notable Points on Quotas and Restrictions

It was indicated that significantly reducing import quotas and raising the non-quota tariff to 50% would greatly diminish the likelihood of alleviating the pressure in the European market.

New Origin Rule and Administrative Burden

Additionally, it was expressed that the new origin rule based on the principle of “melting and pouring”, which further restricts steel imports, would create a significant administrative burden for European users of imported steel products.

Special Circumstances Should Be Evaluated

The statement noted that the European Commission should also consider the special circumstances of sectors, like automotive, that are required to import specific quantities and qualities of steel.