Speaking at the General Assembly on Tuesday ( June 17, 2025), the Spanish Association of Steel Industries (UNESID) stressed that the industry is facing serious structural risks, despite the production and export growth recorded at the beginning of 2025. Non-European import pressure, increasing energy costs and competitive inequality are hampering the sector's recovery, the association stated.
According to the data, steel production and exports increased by 11.2% and 4.1% respectively at the beginning of the year. However, according to UNESID, energy costs, which are two to three times higher than in other countries in Europe, and the removal of electricity tariff reductions are adding to the financial pressure on the sector. According to UNESID, this could cost companies an additional EUR 40 million annually.
UNESID announced at its General Assembly that it is demanding an ambitious Europe-wide industrial policy, predictable energy prices and a fair regulatory framework. UNESID argued that without these conditions, Europe's autonomy in strategic sectors such as energy, defense and infrastructure would be at risk.
The association also called for the creation of a permanent and effective trade defense mechanism in view of the new US tariffs on European steel and the imminent expiry of safeguard measures in Europe. “We cannot allow imported steel that fails to meet environmental and social standards to flood the European market,” the statement read.
UNESID noted that 80% of the steel produced in Spain comes from recycled scrap, maintaining its leadership in the circular economy. While calling for a fair green transformation that is technically and economically feasible, it was emphasized that this process should not lead to deindustrialization.
Referring to the increase in women's employment, UNESID announced that the rate increased from 7.7% in 2016 to 10% in 2025. The Union stated that it will continue to support the development of young and female talents in the sector.
Comments
No comment yet.