Today, President von der Leyen brought together European industry leaders and stakeholders for the launch of the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the European Steel Industry. This dialogue marks the start of an inclusive process to address the sectors challenges and ensure its success as an economic driver.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated: “Our European Union was built on a community of coal and steel. Steel is everywhere, from wind power to defense. European steelmakers are at a crossroads, needing decarbonization and facing unfair competition. Todays dialogue aims to create a plan to help the sector decarbonize and thrive globally. We join forces for a strong European steel industry.”
Steel plants are crucial for regional economies and support over 2.5 million jobs in the EU. The industry faces pressure from rising energy costs and falling product prices, limiting investment in clean steel, essential for decarbonization.
The initial dialogue enabled the Commission and key players to chart a course. With the Clean Industrial Deal from February, the Commission has already taken steps to support energy-intensive industries. The plan includes measures to create markets for low-carbon steel and accelerate investments.
The outcomes of this process will feed into an Action Plan for Steel and Metals, focusing on priorities like commercially viable clean steel production and addressing unfair trade practices.
President von der Leyen has tasked Vice-President Séjourné to present an action plan on March 19.
The European Parliament and Council will be closely involved and regularly informed.
Background
The European steel industry is a vital component of the EU economy and strategic autonomy.
With around 500 production sites in 22 member states, the industry contributes approximately EUR 80 billion to the EUs GDP and supports over 2.5 million jobs. It provides crucial inputs to sectors like automotive, construction, defense, and net-zero technologies.
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