EU lifts steel import tariff to 50%, China threatens countermeasures

The European Parliament voted on 19 May to double the anti‑dumping duty on steel imports from China, raising the tariff to 50 % and cutting the duty‑free quota to 18.3 million tonnes a year. The measure, which will take effect on 1 July 2026, is intended to protect the EU steel sector from a surge of low‑priced Chinese exports.

China’s Ministry of Commerce said it is negotiating with the EU within the World Trade Organization framework and expects a mutually beneficial outcome. However, a Chinese spokesperson warned that if the EU applies discriminatory actions against Chinese firms and products, Beijing will implement corresponding retaliatory measures to defend its legitimate rights.