Two Spanish MEPs from the Socialists and Democrats group have formally asked the European Commission to consider a sector-specific benchmark for ceramic tiles under the EU Emissions Trading System, warning that current rules risk undermining competitiveness and employment in energy-intensive, hard-to-decarbonise sectors.
In a written parliamentary question submitted on 20 May 2026, Sandra Gómez López and Leire Pajín cite concerns raised by the European ceramics industry, including the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), and a joint statement from industry and regional authorities calling for adapted ETS benchmarks. The MEPs note that the Commission has indicated it may review the methodology and consider more sector-specific benchmarks.
The question contains three concrete asks: a timetable for adopting and implementing revised benchmarks; a specific benchmark for ceramic tiles that reflects actual production conditions; and measures to prevent carbon leakage in hard-to-decarbonise sectors such as ceramics. The MEPs frame the issue as strategically important for regions like Castellón and for European industrial autonomy.
Policy orientation
The question pushes for a more flexible, technology-aware ETS that acknowledges limited decarbonisation alternatives in ceramics. It aligns with efforts by Spain and other Member States to adapt the system to energy-intensive industries, signalling a tension between EU climate ambition and industrial competitiveness.
Expected follow-up
The Commission is required to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will indicate whether it plans to adjust benchmarks, set a dedicated ceramics category, or introduce anti-carbon-leakage measures — and on what timeline. The response will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and regional authorities in southern Europe.