British Steel has welcomed the announcement that steel sections made in the UK will regain tariff-free access to the EU.
Under the agreement a UK-specific quota will be reintroduced, allowing steelmakers to export more sections to the EU.
Interim chief commercial officer at British Steel, Lisa Coulson, said: “The removal of EU tariffs on British-made steel sections is a significant boost to our business.
“We are delighted we will be able to provide the high-quality sections our loyal and supportive EU customers require tariff-free and thank the UK Government for delivering this agreement.
“We now look to the future with even greater optimism as we focus on building stronger futures for our customers.”
27kt of sections can be exported to the EU tariff-free per quarter as part of the quota. Any exports over the quota will face an extra tariff.
Secretary of state for business and trade, Jonathan Reynolds, added: “This is yet another positive step forward for the UK steel sector and a clear example of our Plan for Change in action — removing barriers, supporting jobs, and backing British industry.”
He continued: “This builds on the significant support that this pro-steel Government has already delivered — from our £500 million investment in Tata’s green steel transition, to action to safeguard jobs at British Steel in Scunthorpe, and our deal with the US to reduce tariffs on UK steel.”
