German steel industry calls for unified EU response to US tariffs

The German Steel Federation (Wirtschaftsvereinigung Stahl), representing the German steel industry, has issued a statement in response to the U.S. government’s announcement of tariffs on all steel imports.

Gunnar Groebler, President of the German Steel Federation, highlighted the potential consequences for the industry in Germany and across the European Union. The U.S. is a key export market, with Germany alone exporting approximately one million tons of primarily specialized steel to the U.S. each year. In total, about 20% of the EU’s steel exports are directed to the U.S. market.

Groebler stated that the tariffs will significantly impact the European steel industry and that the EU must act swiftly and strategically to counter the potential negative effects. He emphasized the need for the EU to take decisive measures to prevent an oversupply of steel imports redirected from the U.S. into the European market, which would exacerbate existing pressures from global overcapacities, particularly from China.

Additionally, Groebler reiterated the importance of continued dialogue between the EU and the U.S. regarding the steel sector. He called for progress on negotiations for a ‘Global Arrangement on Steel and Aluminum,’ which could help create long-term stability for European steel producers and ensure fair trade conditions.

The German Steel Federation will remain engaged in monitoring the situation and working with policymakers to advocate for a coordinated and effective response that protects the interests of the European steel industry.

Source and Photo: WV Stahl