韩国钢铁业“拉响警报”应对欧美夹击

Core Points - The EU has announced plans to reduce the import quota for steel products and increase tariffs from 25% to 50%, raising concerns in the South Korean steel industry about potential export impacts [1][3] - The total import quota for steel is set to decrease to 18.3 million tons, a reduction of 47% compared to 2024 levels, with new origin rules for steel products being introduced [3] - South Korean steel exports to the EU and the US were valued at $4.48 billion and $4.35 billion respectively last year, and the industry is currently facing pressures from declining exports and overcapacity [3][4] Industry Impact - The South Korean steel industry is alarmed by the EU's measures, which are perceived as more threatening than US tariffs due to the simultaneous implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) [3] - The industry is considering strategies such as overseas production and supply chain diversification to mitigate risks, although establishing production facilities in Europe is seen as challenging due to high costs and environmental regulations [4] - Major South Korean steel manufacturers are currently investing in new facilities in the US, indicating a shift in focus away from Europe [4] Government Response - The South Korean government is actively negotiating with the EU to secure the maximum possible tariff-free quotas and is emphasizing its role as a key partner in providing high-quality steel [4] - A plan to enhance the steel industry's competitiveness through low-carbon transformation and value addition is expected to be released by the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy [4]