The European Steel Association (EUROFER) warns that the proposed Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) could jeopardize local climate goals by favoring foreign imports.

Although the policy seeks to increase manufacturing to 20% of EU GDP, current rules lack strict "Union origin" requirements. EUROFER argues that without changes, public funds might support steel produced abroad and merely processed in Europe.

To protect regional jobs and investments, the association advocates for a definition based on steel melted and poured within the EU. Producers also want higher minimum shares for low-carbon steel in public contracts and sectors such as electrical steel parts and wind energy.

Establishing a clear demand for home-grown green steel is essential to maintain industrial autonomy and prevent manufacturing from moving to countries with lower carbon costs.