The ongoing trade dispute between the EU and the USA has impacted Stahl Gerlafingen, a steel plant owned by the Beltrame Group in Switzerland. This conflict has led to restrictions on Swiss steel exports to the EU, despite a free trade agreement between Switzerland and the EU. In 2018, the USA imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the EU, Canada, and Mexico, prompting retaliatory tariffs from the EU.
The closure of an export-oriented production line at Stahl Gerlafingen is one of the consequences of this trade dispute. With quotas imposed by the EU restricting Swiss steel exports, Stahl Gerlafingen had no choice but to shut down one of its lines. However, recent progress has been made with the EU promising to cap quotas for individual states in affected product categories. This could potentially allow room for imports from countries like Switzerland.
Despite this progress, there are still concerns about whether Stahl Gerlafingen will be able to consistently export to the EU in the future. The closure of its export-oriented production line remains in place, and competition from other countries for limited quotas is fierce. Additionally, Swiss steel exports to the EU have declined in recent years due to these restrictions.
The impact of these restrictions on Stahl Gerlafingen has been significant, leading some to call for state support for producers in the sector. Two motions are set to be discussed in federal parliament regarding this issue. The situation remains uncertain as both sides continue negotiations for a resolution that will allow for more consistent exports to the EU.
In conclusion, while recent developments offer some hope for a resolution to this trade dispute affecting Stahl Gerlafingen and other industries within Switzerland’s borders, uncertainty remains around whether they will be able to consistently export goods without facing limitations imposed by various countries involved in this ongoing conflict.
