European steelmakers are urging Brussels to implement a robust system of tariffs to combat the sharp rise in Chinese steel exports, which have driven prices below production costs across Europe. The call comes as global overcapacity, weak demand, and high energy costs continue to batter the domestic industry.

According to industry leaders and key trade associations, China's steel exports are expected to exceed 100 million tons this year—marking the highest level since 2016. This surge has already sparked trade tensions, prompting several countries to impose import tariffs to shield their markets from cheap Chinese steel.

European producers argue that without stronger protective measures, the future of the continent’s steel industry remains in jeopardy. They are in line with EU policy: better to have more interventions than competition, reduction of regulation and climate nonsense, less fiscal burden and a market driven energy sector.