Last week, EUROMETAL's Steel Service Center Working Group (SSC Arbeitskreis) brought together industry leaders from Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The meeting's somber mood reflected deep concerns about the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and its impact on European steel processing.

Over two dozen steel executives discussed economic challenges, decarbonization, energy efficiency, workforce security, and distribution issues, with CBAM dominating the discussions. Asian suppliers are seeking workaround solutions, and it might threaten European service centers and steel mills, further complicating the situation.

Participants voiced fears about large customers circumventing CBAM by importing ready-to-use steel products, jeopardizing European steel supply chains. Despite these challenges, the group emphasized the need for collaboration and ongoing dialogue. The future of European steel processing depends on adapting to CBAM demands while remaining competitive, with collaboration and innovation being key to overcoming these obstacles.