Turkish steel producers have warned that the European Union’s new steel import quota system could further reduce Turkey’s share in the European market, raising concerns over future export opportunities.
The revised framework, expected to take effect from July 1, 2026, will tighten access to the EU market by reducing tariff-free import volumes and increasing duties on shipments exceeding quota limits.
- Tariff-free steel import quotas will be reduced by approximately 47%
- Imports exceeding quota limits will face a 50% duty, compared to the current 25%
- The total annual tariff-free quota will be capped at 18.3 million mt
The EU remains one of Turkey’s most important export destinations, and the stricter quota regime could further limit market access for Turkish steel suppliers.
Despite these challenges, Turkey’s steel industry continued to outperform global production growth in the first quarter of 2026. Turkish crude steel production increased by 5.5% year on year, compared to 3.5% growth in global steel production during the same period.
The industry has called for continued dialogue with European authorities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fair market access amid evolving trade policies and ongoing concerns over global steel overcapacity.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group
