PRESS STATEMENT EU Steel Action Plan: Swift Implementation Needed

“The steel industry is the foundation for a strong industrial sector and for a resilient, independent Europe. At the same time, the industry has been under immense pressure for years. The European Commission acknowledges both of these realities in its Steel Action Plan and outlines ways out of the crisis. However, the plan remains too vague on many points. The Action Plan now needs to be fleshed out quickly and implemented without delay.

High energy prices are the most pressing problem for the European steel industry. While this is acknowledged, there is a lack of swift, concrete measures that would lead to competitive electricity prices. The Action Plan also falls short of our expectations regarding the development of green lead markets and the ramp-up of the hydrogen economy.

We expressly welcome the announced reform of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the planned successor regulation for the “safeguards” measures. IG Metall has long advocated for both. If these instruments are now effectively adapted to current developments and known loopholes are closed, they can make a decisive contribution to stabilizing the steel industry in Europe and securing jobs.”

Further information and press photos of Jürgen Kerner