Commission Strengthens Protection for EU Steel Industry
The European Commission has tightened the steel safeguard measure to protect the EU steel industry from increasing imports, fulfilling the EUs Steel and Metals Action Plan. The liberalisation rate has been reduced from 1% to 0.1%, restricting steel imports to the EU without tariffs. Countries can no longer use other countries unused quotas, including those of Russia and Belarus. The carry-over mechanism for high-pressure import categories is removed, allowing EU producers to regain market share and boost green steel investment.
The changes respond to pressures from global overcapacity and rising Chinese exports. A review requested by 13 EU Member States showed worsening industry conditions due to import pressures. Most adjustments start on April 1, 2025, with some on July 1, 2025. The safeguard will end on June 30, 2026.
Introduced in 2019, the safeguard prevents damage from trade diversion and import rises, with several reviews adapting it to market changes.
(For more information: Olof Gill – Tel.: +32 2 296 59 66; Ana Apse-Paese – Tel.: +32 2 298 73 48)
Commission Welcomes Provisional Agreement on Modernised Driving Licences Rules
The European Commission welcomes the provisional agreement on modernising EU driving licence rules. The new Directive aims to reduce crashes and simplify procedures by introducing digital EU licences and a Union-wide mobile driving license by 2030. The Commission regrets the delayed implementation but supports the initiative.
An EU-wide accompanied driving scheme for 17-year-olds, a probationary period for novices, and new fitness requirements will enhance safety. The rules prioritize pedestrian and micromobility safety and allow recognition of third-country licences with similar safety frameworks.
Commissioner for Transport, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, stated that these rules modernize the licensing system, support young drivers, and promote road safety, aligning with the Vision Zero goal.
The Directive will be adopted formally and take effect 20 days post-publication, with Member States having four years to transpose it into national laws.
(For more information: Anna-Kaisa Itkonen – Tel.: +32 2 295 75 01; Anna Wartberger – Tel.: +32 2 298 20 54)
Commission Launches Helpdesk to Support EU SMEs Comply with Sanctions
The European Commission has launched a one-stop-shop to assist European SMEs in navigating sanctions compliance. The EU Sanctions Helpdesk provides free personalized support for sanctions due diligence and offers a website with relevant information, events, and guidance. While available to larger entities, the focus is on SMEs with fewer compliance resources.
Maria Luís Albuquerque, Commissioner for Financial Services, emphasized the need for such a resource to manage the complexities of sanctions, supporting SMEs as a key economic engine.
More information is available in the press release.
(For more information: Olof Gill – Tel.: +32 2 296 59 66; Marta Perez-Cejuela Romero - Tel.: +32 2 296 37 70)
Commission Amplifies Youth Voices with New Report and Eurobarometer Survey
The Commission launches an online debate and releases the 2024 Youth Report and Eurobarometer survey results, showing optimism among young Europeans about the EUs future. Key concerns include cost of living, global stability, and affordable housing.
The Youth Report outlines living conditions and progress under the EU Youth Strategy, addressing challenges like employment and mental health.
These initiatives affirm the Commissions commitment to involving youth in policy-making and providing platforms for their voices.
(For more information: Eva Hrncirova – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Quentin Cortès - Tel.: +32 2 291 32 83)