The European Fastener Distributors Association (EFDA) warned that the rushed implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) could significantly increase the cost of imported fasteners in the European Union. The lack of a proper verification system would effectively turn CBAM into a punitive tariff on imported screws, nuts, and other fasteners.

According to EFDA, European distributors were only briefly informed shortly before Christmas about key provisions for calculating CBAM costs, which affect trade transactions starting January 1, 2026. Without the ability to use verified emissions data, importers will likely have to rely on the European Commission’s default emission values, which EFDA said are unrealistically high.

The association said a shortage of qualified auditors and delays in accreditation could prevent manufacturers from verifying emissions data in time. As a result, default values could apply automatically, potentially raising fastener costs by 30 to 50% in the first year of full CBAM implementation. EFDA warned that the system could reduce the competitiveness of EU-made products.