The European steel sector is poised for a significant shift as the European Commission proposes amendments to its import safeguard measures. The proposed changes, which are currently under consultation, could see a cap on imports from countries in the “other countries” category to just 15% of the EU’s quarterly hot rolled coil quota. This move, aimed at extending the safeguard rules until June 30, 2026, would limit tariff-free imports from these nations to 141,849 tonnes for the latter half of the year. The potential implementation of these measures from July 1 has already sparked a surge in steel prices and a scramble for new suppliers, as importers anticipate the imposition of the EU’s 25% above-quota tariffs.