What are the EU's new tariff plans for steel?

The EU plans to halve its annual tariff-free steel import quota to 18 million tons and double duty on excess imports from 25% to 50% next year.

How will EU tariffs affect British steel?

Tariffs will make exporting steel to the EU more expensive and could divert cheap imports into the UK, threatening jobs and domestic production.

What action is the UK government taking on steel tariffs?

Ministers are in negotiations with Brussels and considering protective measures, with a new Steel Strategy expected later this year.

Home / Business and Economy / UK Steel Faces EU Tariff Crisis

UK Steel Faces EU Tariff Crisis

23 Nov, 2025

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Summary

EU trade tariffs loom, threatening UK steel exports and imports.
Thousands of jobs are at risk if no deal is reached with Brussels.
EU plans to halve tariff-free steel imports and double excess duty rates.

The British steel industry is warning of an existential threat from looming European Union trade tariffs set to be implemented next year. Steel bosses are urging the government for immediate action, fearing a dual impact of reduced access to the EU market and an influx of cheaper foreign steel.

With the EU set to halve its annual tariff-free steel import quota and double duties on excess imports, exporting steel to the EU will likely become more costly for the UK. Simultaneously, lower trade barriers in Britain could divert inexpensive steel, particularly from China, towards the UK market, endangering thousands of jobs in the sector.

Industry leaders emphasize the critical need for government intervention, including strong protection measures and renegotiation of terms with Brussels. The Steel Strategy, detailing government support, is anticipated later this year, as the industry faces increasing pressure following prior tariff disputes with the US.