Yuriy Ryzhenkov, chief executive of Metinvest, has criticized recent European Union restrictions on steel imports, stating that Ukrainian producers have been inappropriately included in measures designed primarily to counter cheap imports from China and Turkey. He argued the tariffs were implemented without regard for Ukraine’s current circumstances and called for at least a partial exemption for Ukrainian steel to access EU markets.
The EU recently implemented a cap on duty-free steel imports at 18.3 million tonnes annually, representing a 47% reduction from 2024 levels. While some country-specific quotas exist within the policy framework, the overall objective targets reducing competitive pressure from low-cost foreign suppliers on member state manufacturers. Although a free-trade agreement exists between the EU and Ukraine, it does not prevent the bloc from introducing separate trade protection mechanisms. Ryzhenkov contended that treating Ukraine identically to other importers was inequitable given the nation’s ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian steel industry projections estimate exports to the EU could decline by 50-60% under the new restrictions. The European Commission stated it provided Ukraine with a specific steel quota guaranteeing continued exports, though at lower volumes than previously achieved. A Commission spokesperson acknowledged Ukraine’s status as an important steel exporter and noted compensatory measures offered to major suppliers.
Steel production remains economically vital for Ukraine, historically representing approximately 10% of national income and one-third of exports prior to Russia’s full-scale military campaign in 2022. The EU serves as the country’s primary customer. However, the industry has sustained substantial damage from ongoing Russian strikes, with all Ukrainian steel mills targeted at various points. In September, production ceased entirely for what Ryzhenkov characterized as the first time in roughly 150 years. Metinvest has reported nearly 800 worker fatalities since the conflict began, while the company has invested in protective infrastructure at its facilities.
Ryzhenkov expressed concern about the approaching winter, describing it as potentially the most difficult period in the company’s history. He emphasized that without access to alternative markets beyond the EU and facing a 60% reduction in available market share, the industry’s survival prospects have become increasingly precarious.
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