EU Strengthens Transformer Value Chain: Preliminary Safeguard Measures for Grain-Oriented Electrical Steel Approved

Following an extensive investigation, the European Commission has adopted provisional safeguard measures for grain-oriented electrical steel (GOES). Effective September 25, 2026, the measures will remain in place through the end of February 2027 and are designed to limit surging imports of heavily subsidized material, particularly from Asia.

GOES is an essential material for power transmission infrastructure and the energy transition. It is used in transformers and other critical applications, including substations, data centers, and wind farms.

Marie Jaroni, CEO of thyssenkrupp Steel: "We strongly welcome the European Union's decision to introduce provisional safeguard measures for grain-oriented electrical steel and other products across the transformer value chain following a thorough investigation. This is positive and reassuring news for more than 1,000 families at our sites in Gelsenkirchen and northern France.

What is particularly significant is that, for the first time, an entire value chain, from electrical steel to the transformer core, is being protected rather than a single product alone. The provisional measures are balanced and help preserve critical industrial production, innovation and jobs in Europe, reduce dependencies and strengthen resilience."