Market insight papers
Quota access outweighs CBAM costs in EU import decisions
Understand the real drivers of EU steel imports
EU steel buyers are prioritising quota availability over CBAM costs when sourcing imports. This Argus infographic highlights how safeguard mechanisms, trade flows and carbon costs are shaping import behaviour in 2026.
What this infographic shows
- Quota access is the primary driver of imports, outweighing CBAM cost considerations
- EU HRC imports reached around 1.9mn tonnes in Q1 2026, rebounding after early-year volatility
- Buyers are focusing on safeguard-exempt origins such as Indonesia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia and Ukraine
- CBAM carbon costs vary significantly by origin, depending on production routes
- The supplier landscape remains competitive, with key exporters including Turkey, Ukraine, India and South Korea
Access deeper insight
Use Argus data to quantify costs and track market changes:
- Model carbon costs with the CBAM Calculator
- Track EU quota utilisation in real time
- Analyse monthly trade flows and supplier dynamics
Download the infographic
Get a clear, data-led view of EU steel imports, CBAM costs and global supplier positioning.
Download the infographic
About Argus Media
As a leading authority on energy and commodity markets across the globe, Argus is uniquely positioned to provide in-depth analysis and expert thought leadership. Our white papers are carefully written by Argus specialists from across our company. Each white paper focuses on a topical theme, exploring areas such supply and demand dynamics, price trends, trading activity and changing regulations. We always aim to provide a balanced view, underpinned by data and insight gathered first hand from the market.