European Aluminium responds to EU Trade Commissioner Malmström's press conference on potential US tariffs

European Aluminium applauds EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström’s statements concerning the potential US tariffs against all aluminium products from Europe. The association representing the entire aluminium value chain with more than 600 plants all across Europe encourages the executive body to take the necessary actions to fight for European jobs by applying WTO-compatible tools.   

“The Commissioner ticked all the boxes during yesterday’s press conference. Yes, it’s unfair to justify any unilateral decision under the false pretense of national security. Yes, it’s out of scope because it does not fix Chinese overcapacity, which is at the heart of the problem. Yes, the EU has to respond to stand in for our interests and the respect of international trade rules. She is spot on,” commented Gerd Götz, Director General of European Aluminium.

The leading association equally welcomes European Parliament’s decision to include the topic as part of the debate in next week plenary session. 

“Members of the European Parliament did not hesitate to change agenda and face this delicate matter. We hope discussions will lead to a firm resolution outlining the need to support aluminium jobs, investments and innovation. Moreover, our material is permanent, circular by nature and decisive to build the low carbon economy of the future in key markets such as mobility, building and packaging. A vague debate is not an option,” explained Götz.

Over the last months, European Aluminium has been calling for a global aluminium forum to deal with Chinese overcapacity in G20. A global problem needs global solutions. 
“If the US Administration confirms its decision this week, we urge the European Commission to implement immediate market surveillance and, if necessary, safeguard measures. Any delay to implement such decisions will hurt our economies and the trust our companies and workers have in the EU to do their job,” concluded Götz.