Energy costs and weak industrial competitiveness, not scrap scarcity, pose the greatest threat to Europe’s steel sector, according to EuRIC and industry leaders. Steel demand in the EU has fallen sharply over recent years, with imports now accounting for nearly 28 % of consumption. The European Commission’s Steel and Metals Action Plan offers a multi pillar strategy focused on energy reform, trade defence, circularity, and employment protection. Steelmakers and labour unions are calling for immediate implementation to ensure Europe remains a viable producer while achieving its climate targets.