European metal packaging manufacturers are concerned about proposed changes to EU steel safeguards that could increase costs, limit access to materials, and disrupt supply chains in the region. The European Commission is preparing a new safeguard framework that could reduce tariff-free steel imports by almost half and raise out-of-quota tariffs to 50%.

Industry groups estimate the new safeguards could result in €5bn to €9bn in additional annual costs for downstream sectors if steel import demand remains high. The proposal also introduces a stricter rule to verify the origin of steel, which could add complexity and administrative costs for manufacturers and converters.

Metal packaging producers are calling for a balanced approach that protects EU steelmakers while ensuring reliable access to imported steel when domestic supply is insufficient. Negotiations on the safeguard framework are ongoing, with final rules expected before current measures expire, impacting competitiveness, investment certainty, and supply chain resilience in the metal packaging market.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Metal packaging sector raises concerns over EU steel safeguards