Finnish stainless steel producer Outokumpu reported that at least one‑third of companies have paused or delayed stainless steel orders due to U.S. import tariffs that can reach up to 50%. The company said more than half of surveyed customers are reconsidering sourcing strategies because of the new trade barriers. Outokumpu’s CEO, Kati ter Horst, argued that current EU import quotas are too high given weakening demand and said she expects the European Commission to introduce protective measures for EU producers in October, ahead of the expiry of existing safeguards next summer. The U.S. expanded its tariff list in August to cover numerous derivative products, creating additional uncertainty for machinery and equipment buyers. Outokumpu also disclosed progress on a low‑emission stainless alloy containing 99% chromium—up from 53% previously—with plans to scale production. Chromium sourced from Outokumpu’s own mine, which supplies Europe’s and North America’s only domestic chromium, remains exempt from tariffs. The company framed the tariff landscape against broader EU decarbonization policies, including the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), noting delays and cancellations in green steel projects amid high energy costs. Despite near‑term disruption to order patterns, Outokumpu said long‑term demand for stainless steel is supported by sustainability objectives and increased defense spending. The company’s comments underscore how recent tariff changes are reshaping stainless steel trade flows, prompting buyers to rethink supply chains and potentially accelerating policy responses within the European Union.