The European Steel Association (EUROFER), noting that the EU and UK have started negotiations to reach a trade agreement this week, has urged both sides to achieve a trade deal which provides a reciprocal, frictionless and fair platform for suppliers and downstream users in the steel industry. EUROFER stated that it is very important to maintain a level playing field. The association expects the EU and UK to reach an agreement regarding solutions to guarantee the continuity of logistical procedures between the two sides.
Mutual market access and alignment of standards such as in relevant tax matters, employment, competition policy, state-owned enterprises, state aid, environment, climate change and other regulatory measures and practices have vital importance for the steel sectors for both sides, EUROFER stated.
The UK and the EU can agree on an extension but must do so by 1 July, but, even if the parties cannot reach a deal, the transition period will end on December 31.
“No deal would be the worst possible outcome - erecting barriers to trade overnight that would be needlessly damaging”, said Axel Eggert, director general of EUROFER.