Protecting industrial sovereignty and employment in the steel sector amidst global trade instability

Question for written answer E-000652/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Idoia Mendia (S&D)

The steel industry is a fundamental pillar of the EU's strategic autonomy and a driver of industrial employment in regions such as the Basque Country. However, the sector is facing increasing pressure from asymmetric global competition, as well as from third countries imposing heavier tariffs.

Tubos Reunidos recently announced a labour force adjustment plan cutting over 300 jobs in the Basque Country, which highlights the impact of the situation on industrial employment. The company's decision responds to the decline in margins and volumes following exemptions being abolished and the strategic US market being impacted by tariffs. That decline has been exacerbated by geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

If the EU is aiming for industrial sovereignty, preventing trade distortions from resulting in the loss of both jobs and productive capacity is a priority.

• 1.What urgent trade protection measures does the Commission intend to adopt to protect strategic companies such as Tubos Reunidos from tariff pressure from third countries?
• 2.How will the Steel and Metals Action Plan, adopted by the Commission in 2025, ensure that European steelworks remain viable and that jobs are retained in the current context of global instability?

Submitted: 16.2.2026