欧盟“碳关税”真的来了！钢铝产业影响几何？

Core Viewpoint - The European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will officially enter its charging phase on January 1, 2026, initially covering six product categories: steel, cement, aluminum, fertilizers, electricity, and hydrogen. By 2028, the scope is expected to expand to approximately 180 downstream products, including washing machines and automotive parts [1][5]. Group 1: CBAM Implementation and Scope - CBAM will begin charging for carbon emissions on January 1, 2026, with a phased approach to implementation [1]. - The initial product coverage includes steel, cement, aluminum, fertilizers, electricity, and hydrogen, with specific customs codes provided for clarity [1][4]. - By 2028, the coverage will expand to include around 180 additional products, particularly in the steel and aluminum-intensive downstream sectors [5][6]. Group 2: Impact on Chinese Enterprises - Chinese companies exporting to the EU need to establish differentiated carbon emission data management systems to comply with CBAM [1][9]. - The actual payment obligations under CBAM will primarily affect large Chinese exporters working with major EU importers, while many small and medium-sized enterprises may be exempt due to a 50-ton annual import threshold [6][7]. - The impact on major Chinese aluminum companies is expected to be limited, as they can track their production data and often have lower actual emissions than the default values set by CBAM [8]. Group 3: Compliance Strategies - Chinese enterprises are advised to develop targeted data management strategies to meet CBAM requirements, focusing on direct and indirect emissions based on product categories [9]. - The establishment of a sustainable support alliance is underway to assist companies in understanding and managing their carbon footprints effectively [9]. - Companies should prioritize high carbon intensity products for compliance management and prepare for potential future regulatory changes [9]. Group 4: Broader Regulatory Context - In addition to CBAM, the EU has introduced new battery regulations that emphasize carbon footprint labeling, which will also affect exports [10][11]. - The carbon footprint labeling will require detailed disclosures about the lifecycle carbon footprint of batteries, further complicating compliance for exporters [11][12]. - The evolving regulatory landscape indicates a trend towards stricter green trade barriers, which may impact global trade dynamics [12][13]. Group 5: Competitive Advantages for China - China has made significant progress in low-carbon transitions, which may provide a competitive edge in adapting to EU regulations compared to other countries [13]. - The country's proactive measures in low-carbon transformation and compliance capabilities position it favorably in the face of stringent EU regulations [13].