The European Commission (EC) has launched a new surveillance mechanism designed to detect and prevent harmful trade diversion into the European Union. The initiative aims to shield the EU market from sudden disruptive import surges that could destabilize domestic industries.
The new tool, which builds on customs data and fact-based analysis, will allow the Commission to identify import trends early and take swift, preventive action. The move comes amid growing concerns about trade flows being redirected to Europe following the U.S. administration’s recent tariff hike to 50%.
There is also increased focus on the expiration of the EU's safeguard measures in 2026, which could leave the bloc more vulnerable to external trade shocks. In response, the EC has set up a dedicated task force that will monitor imports and related indicators starting January 1, 2025. The Commission confirmed that findings will be published online regularly for transparency.
In a further step, the EU has initiated a dialogue with China to monitor potential trade diversion and address significant developments collaboratively. This proactive engagement underscores the EU's strategy to stay ahead of evolving global trade dynamics and mitigate any emerging risks.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group
