Brussels, 29/04/2016 (Agence Europe) - As promised in its plan for safeguarding the European steel industry which was published in mid-March, the European Commission announced on Friday 29 April that it had established a prior surveillance system for the import of steel products into the EU. The system will serve to anticipate short-term market developments and take action, if needed.
Under the regulation adopted by the Commission on Friday, the import of steel products into the EU will now require an import licence. To allow a smooth transition, an additional 21 days have been granted from the entry into force of the regulation, during which imports can still enter the EU without licence.
“This decision gives a clear signal to companies, including in exporting countries, that the Commission actively monitors market developments and is willing to take the necessary steps if justified”, the Commission stated.
Prior surveillance measures are provided for in the EU's safeguard instrument and can be introduced when import trends threaten to cause injury to Union producers, the Commission states, adding that the product scope of the surveillance was decided after consultation with the EU industry and reflects its recent sensitivities. (Original version in French by Emmanuel Hagry)