EU Launches Safeguard Investigation into Manganese, Silicon Alloys Imports

The European Commission

The European Commission has initiated a safeguard investigation into the import of manganese and silicon-based alloys and silicon metal, following concerns about the erosion of market share for EU producers. The probe, launched on December 19, focuses on a range of materials, including silicon metal, ferro-manganese, ferro-silicon, ferro-silico-manganese, ferro-silico-magnesium, and calcium-silicon.

The investigation, driven by industry body Euroalliages and certain member states, comes in response to a surge in global production capacity and rising imports, particularly from China, which has significantly impacted EU producers. Euroalliages Secretary-General Bob Lambrechts highlighted that China's excess production capacity could meet the EU’s demand multiple times over, raising alarm over increasing import shares.

Global spare production capacity for these materials exceeds 21 million tons per year, with another 13 million tons per year expected to be added. Meanwhile, declining demand in the EU’s steel and aluminium industries leaves the region unable to absorb these volumes.

Timeline and Possible Measures

The commission will accept comments, evidence, and information from stakeholders within 21 days of the announcement. If safeguard measures are deemed necessary, they could be implemented within nine months, with an optional two-month extension for exceptional circumstances.

In cases of urgent harm, the commission may impose provisional measures for up to 200 days while continuing its analysis. These actions are critical for stabilizing the market and protecting EU producers from potential dumping and unsustainable competition.

Strategic Materials and Trade Policies

Euroalliages emphasized the strategic importance of manganese, silicon alloys, and related materials to the EU’s industrial base. Lambrechts noted, “Times have changed, and you cannot primarily rely on countries that you cannot be sure will continue to supply.”

The investigation is part of a broader effort to strengthen the EU’s industrial value chain against external pressures and ensure long-term competitiveness. Lambrechts also underscored that this effort goes beyond traditional anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures, signaling a more comprehensive approach to trade policy.

The Risk of Import Surges

The commission warned of potential imminent increases in imports due to trade protectionism measures in external countries, which could divert more volumes to the EU. Addressing these risks is crucial to preserving the EU’s industrial capacity and reducing reliance on unstable supply chains.