Source: European Parliament
1. The Commission recognises that the energy-intensive sectors are the backbone of the European manufacturing system but also particularly vulnerable in this phase of the clean energy transition. The Clean Industrial Deal (CID)[1] proposes actions to safeguard the competitiveness of energy-intensive industries from high energy cost and unfair global competition. Additionally, the CID foresees actions to accelerate decarbonisation through measures aimed at the clean-tech sector. To address overcapacities being redirected to the EU market, the Commission will intensify international and multilateral cooperation. The Commission has also presented a tailor-made action plan[2] for the steel and metals sectors, which account for 95% of coking coal used in the EU.
2. Concerning imports from third countries, the Commission aims to ensure a fair playing field in line with its international trade commitments and, if sufficient evidence for such practices is submitted, could utilise its trade defence instruments, such as anti-dumping or safeguard measures.
3. The Commission equally promotes sustainable development (e.g. adherence to international labour and environmental standards) in international trade, based on commitments set out in multilateral and bilateral agreements, including the rules contained in the ‘Trade and Sustainable Development’ and ‘Energy and Raw Materials’ chapters of the free-trade agreements concluded and under negotiation by the EU. The EU will continue engaging to promote internationally agreed sustainability standards.