Spanish MEP Nicolás González Casares (S&D) has asked the European Commission to reassess whether safeguard measures are needed for silicon metal, warning that EU production of this critical raw material is collapsing under a flood of cheap imports from China and Angola. The question, tabled on 14 April 2026, targets the Commission's November 2025 decision to exclude silicon metal from safeguard measures on ferro-alloys, a move that Casares argues has left European producers like Ferroglobe unable to compete.
Concrete asks and policy direction The written question (E-001503/2026) contains two concrete demands: first, that the Commission reassess the situation and consider imposing safeguard measures on silicon metal; second, that it clarify whether it considers acceptable for EU production to shrink to just 15% of domestic needs, increasing external dependence. The MEP frames silicon metal as a critical and strategic material under Regulation (EU) 2024/125, implying that the Commission's current stance contradicts its own strategic autonomy goals.
Stakeholders impacted European silicon metal producers, particularly those in Spain and France, are directly affected by the lack of trade protection. Downstream EU industries relying on silicon metal (e.g., solar panels, electronics) may face supply chain risks if domestic production collapses. Chinese and Angolan exporters benefit from continued market access, while EU consumers could face higher prices if safeguards are imposed.
Expected follow-up The Commission must reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it plans to revisit the safeguard decision or maintain the current open-market approach, with implications for EU industrial policy and critical raw materials strategy.
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