EURFOER files compliant against state aid for Ilva
Friday, 29 May 2015 14:57:14 (GMT+3)
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Istanbul
Speaking at the 5th European Steel Day held in Brussels on May 28, Robrecht Himpe, president of the European Steel Association (EOROFER), said that the steel industry is the basis for investments, growth and jobs in Europe's manufacturing value chains, which contribute to 80 percent of the EU's exports. "Therefore, EU policies must act vigorously against distorting national state aid and unfair steel trade from third countries to ensure a healthy and cost-competitive steel industry," he added.
Additionally, EUROFER has filed a formal complaint at the European Commission against Italian state aid for Taranto-based steel company Ilva, which is currently under state control. EUROFER argues that the aid of around €2 billion allocated to the company by the Italian authorities is not compatible with the EU Treaty and EU state aid regulations.
EUROFER also pointed out that the biggest industry risks in the mid- and long-term are the cost impact from high energy prices and the EU's emissions trading system. To ensure the competitiveness of the steel industry in Europe, the gap in energy prices between the EU and competing economies must be closed.
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