The Serbian government plans to request an exemption from the European Commission regarding the planned 50% tariff increase on steel imports into the EU. Serbia’s argument is based on its EU candidate status, its Free Trade Agreement with the EU, and its integration into European supply chains.
The EU has already limited Serbian steel imports and is now imposing an additional 50% tariff on exports exceeding the set quotas. This measure could significantly impact the Smederevo steel plant, operated by Chinese company HBIS, as well as Serbia’s overall steel exports.
During the first eight months of 2025, Serbia exported steel and iron to the EU worth €358.8 million, totaling 492,670 tons, marking an 8% decrease compared to the same period last year. Despite the tariffs, Serbia is expected to maintain a positive export growth rate, though export potential may be reduced.
Globally, approximately two billion tons of steel are produced annually, with China accounting for around one billion tons and the EU about 160 million tons. The EU’s tariff increase follows the U.S. raising its steel and aluminum tariffs to 50% in June to protect domestic producers from Chinese overproduction.
HBIS has not provided detailed comments but stated it is awaiting official clarification of the new measures.
