Outokumpu supports the agreement on European steel safeguard measures, viewing the deal as vital protection against global overcapacity and unfair competition. President and CEO Kati ter Horst welcomes the regulation for its role in countering heavily subsidized imports, noting that European stainless steel holds the lowest carbon footprint globally.

The agreement imposes a 50% tariff on out-of-quota imports and cuts 2024 quotas by around 47%. To stop quota circumvention, the policy mandates a "melted and poured" origin principle. Outokumpu advocates using mill test certificates for this verification.

The Commission plans to evaluate expanding the product scope, including tubes, pipes, wires, and forged bars, within six months of the July 1, 2026, implementation.

While companies may carry over unused quarterly quotas during the first year, the Commission will limit this practice thereafter. The Council and Parliament now proceed toward final adoption.