Core Points - The trade negotiations between the US and EU are ongoing despite a July agreement, with both sides expressing dissatisfaction with the pace of implementation [1][2] - The US is pushing for the EU to eliminate certain regulations viewed as non-tariff barriers, while the EU remains firm on its digital laws [2][5] - The EU is seeking modifications to the July agreement to create a more balanced trade relationship, facing scrutiny from the European Parliament [5][6] Group 1: Trade Negotiations - The recent high-level meeting in Brussels involved US Commerce Secretary and Trade Representative discussing trade issues with EU officials [1] - The US plans to impose a 15% tariff on most EU goods, while the EU has promised to eliminate tariffs on US industrial products [2] - The EU is requesting exemptions for sensitive products, including pasta, cheese, and wine, from US tariffs [4][7] Group 2: Regulatory Pressures - The US is urging the EU to revise its digital and climate regulations, which are perceived as trade barriers [2][5] - The EU is maintaining a unified front in negotiations, avoiding individual country demands that could lead to division [6] - There is a lack of consensus within the EU regarding the trade agreement, with varying opinions among member states [6][7]

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. steel industry is central to Trump's vision for a new industrial economy, with tariffs imposed to strengthen domestic production and reduce reliance on imports [1] Group 1: Impact on U.S. Steel Industry - The U.S. has increased tariffs on steel and aluminum to 50%, affecting 407 product categories, including steel derivatives [1] - U.S. crude steel production showed a slight increase of 1.5% year-on-year in the first seven months of 2025, but the growth is modest compared to a 2.3% decline the previous year [3] - The average capacity utilization rate for U.S. crude steel reached 76.6%, indicating limited improvement [3] Group 2: Effects on China's Steel Industry - China's steel exports to the U.S. are minimal, with only 89,000 tons expected in 2024, representing 0.8% of China's total steel exports [2] - The potential for steel re-export through countries like Vietnam, South Korea, and Brazil is limited, accounting for only 4.5% of China's total steel exports if all were sourced from China [2] Group 3: Strategic Responses - The domestic steel industry should maintain a strategic approach, resisting panic and focusing on practical responses to tariffs [5] - Encouraging high-end steel and green steel exports through measures like export tax rebates is recommended [5] - The industry should align with national policies to accelerate the transition towards high-end, intelligent, and green steel production [5]