Germany Pushes for Fair Competition in EU Steel Sector with Strategic Measures to Safeguard Industrial Stability and European Interests
Published Time：
2025-10-06 15:57
Source：
October 4, 2025 — Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) has formally proposed that the European Commission develop a “robust trade protection strategy,” centered on establishing a tariff-rate quota system to address subsidized foreign competition and uphold fair competition and strategic interests in Europe’s steel industry. The initiative is expected to be included in this month’s “Steel Summit” convened by Chancellor Merz, bringing together government, industry, and labor representatives to shape joint support measures — underscoring Germany’s proactive role in safeguarding industrial stability and promoting coordinated European industrial development.
As a long-term beneficiary of free trade and low-tariff systems, Germany’s proposal does not signal a shift toward protectionism but reflects a commitment to fair competition amid what it views as “a failure of international rules.” The SPD document clearly states: “We cannot stand by as domestic industrial chains erode. This initiative is about defending fair competition and European strategic interests,” highlighting its forward-looking approach to sustainable industrial development and regional economic security.
Key measures focus on balancing openness with control: the proposed tariff-rate quota system would limit excessive imports while maintaining market openness — creating a level playing field for European steel producers without undermining the global trading system. In addition, to prevent market distortions, the SPD has called on the EU to strengthen oversight of Russian steel imports, blocking potential circumvention through third countries and further protecting the order and transparency of Europe’s steel market.
The proposal will be discussed this month at the Steel Summit with German steel producers, state governments, and trade unions, with the goal of forming a multi-stakeholder support package. Analysts suggest that Germany’s move is not only a proactive response to manufacturing competition but also a tangible demonstration of its commitment to “protecting European strategic interests.” Through these systemic measures, Germany aims to inject stability into the European steel sector and promote high-quality, sustainable development through fair competition.
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