The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) has flagged the European Commission’s proposal to raise steel import tariffs to 50% and drastically reduce duty-free quotas as a dangerous step toward protectionism. The chamber warned that the move would fracture global steel trade and disrupt supply chains.
Under the proposal, imports above the allowed quota would face double the current duty rate. The CCCEU argued that while the measure is portrayed as a defensive safeguard, it effectively undermines downstream sectors such as automotive, machinery, and construction.
Although Chinese steel exports to Europe represent a moderate share of its global output, the chamber said the EU’s approach signals a deeper shift toward unilateral trade measures that contradict its stated commitment to a rules-based regime. It urged the EU to conduct a full impact assessment and respect the role of Chinese firms in Europe’s industrial and green transition.
The CCCEU also called on the EU to maintain market predictability, uphold multilateral principles, and avoid further trade escalations that could widen global fragmentation.
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