Importers were unable to adequately prepare for CBAM – Eurometal

The first two weeks after the final introduction of the Cross-Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) were marked by «confusion and uncertainty,» which was particularly difficult for small businesses. This was reported by Eurometal President Alexander Julius in an interview with Contexte.

According to him, companies did not have a real opportunity to prepare properly, as important operational documents were published the day before the carbon duty was introduced. The Eurometal president added that the conclusion of new supply contracts after January has also slowed down, as many companies are waiting for greater clarity and risk assessment before committing to further imports.

CBAM imports declared during the first six days of the reporting period amounted to 1.66 million tons, 98% of which were ferrous metal products. They already dominated during the transition period of the mechanism in 2023-2025.

As a reminder, the European Commission published more than 1,600 pages of new calculation coefficients in December 2025. The inappropriate timing of the publication of the coefficients created a cascade of problems throughout the steel supply chain. Alexander Julius explained that most industry players responsible for CBAM compliance did not begin reviewing the new documentation until offices reopened on January 5.

As reported by GMK Center, in December 2025, the EU strengthened the cross-border carbon adjustment mechanism by adding a wide range of industrial goods, mostly those containing steel or aluminum. This concerns 180 new products.