Including lift guide rails in the proposal for a regulation on the steel market

Question for written answer E-000641/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Borja Giménez Larraz (PPE)

On 7 October 2025, the Commission proposed a Regulation addressing the negative trade-related effects of global overcapacity on the Union steel market.

Annex I to the proposed regulation categorising the products covered is essential for the measures to be consistently and effectively implemented.

The exclusion of certain steel products that are under strong import pressure and potential divergences in their tariff classification raises doubts as to the criteria used and the risk of competitive distortions.

In light of this:

• 1.Why have certain steel products (for example steel lift guide rails) not been included in Annex I to the proposed regulation, despite being under severe import pressure from third countries?
• 2.Why have similar products, such as train tracks, been included?
• 3.Is the Commission aware that, in practice, these products are being imported under headings 8431 31 00 and 7308 90 98 of the Combined Nomenclature, which could lead to tax avoidance and distorted competition due to different tariff codes?

Submitted: 13.2.2026