Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra has defended the uniform application of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) across the EU's customs territory, while acknowledging the specific challenges faced by the outermost regions (ORs). In a written answer to a parliamentary question from Rody Tolassy and other MEPs of the Patriots for Europe group, Hoekstra stressed that CBAM's coherence, environmental efficiency, and compliance with international rules depend on its uniform application. However, he noted that the Commission is fully aware of the particular difficulties of ORs, including geographical remoteness, narrow markets, and structural additional costs, and is committed to implementing policies adapted to their realities under Article 349 TFEU.
The answer, dated 16 July 2026, responds to concerns that CBAM could increase costs for construction and fertiliser industries in ORs, which rely heavily on imports of cement, steel, and fertilisers. Hoekstra pointed to the upcoming 2027 assessment of CBAM, based on the first year of its definitive period, which will inform potential measures. He also referenced the Fertilisers Action Plan (COM(2026) 310 final), which recognises additional costs for OR farmers, and a new strategy for outermost regions, with a regulatory package to be adopted in summer 2026. The Commission will continue to mobilise economic, structural, and financial support for the green transition in ORs.
The answer contains no concrete proposals for adaptation, compensation, or exemption mechanisms, instead deferring to future assessments and strategies. The policy orientation remains firmly in favour of CBAM's uniform application, with a commitment to address OR challenges through broader support instruments rather than CBAM-specific derogations. Institutional follow-up includes the 2027 CBAM review and the upcoming OR strategy package.