Steel and Automotive Industries Unite to Secure Europe’s Economic Future

Brussels, Belgium, 22 October – Europe’s steel and automotive sectors are urging for a pragmatic and realistic approach to transformation ahead of the European Council meeting on 23 October. These two industries are crucial to the EU economy, providing over 15.5 million jobs combined across the continent.

The automotive industry supports more than 13 million jobs throughout Europe. These include direct employment in factories and indirect roles in supply chains and retail. Similarly, the steel industry supports over 2.5 million jobs, contributing to manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure.

Together, steel and cars form the backbone of Europe’s industrial strength. They drive innovation, technological progress, and competitiveness. Both sectors face significant pressure from increasing global competition, regulatory changes, and the challenge to transition to greener production methods.

In their joint statement released on 22 October, representatives from both industries emphasized the importance of a balanced transformation pathway. They warn that an overly strict or unrealistic approach could risk pushing investments and skilled jobs outside Europe. This would weaken the EU’s industrial base and harm long-term economic growth.

The industries call for policies that support:

• Innovation
• Energy efficiency
• Sustainable manufacturing

while remaining economically viable. They seek collaborative efforts between policymakers, businesses, and workers to create a future-proof industrial strategy.

The upcoming European Council meeting on 23 October will discuss economic and industrial policies crucial to this transformation. The steel and automotive sectors hope their joint appeal will influence decisions to ensure Europe remains competitive and a leader in global markets.

Key points to note:

1. Steel and automotive industries constitute a major part of Europe’s economy and employment.
2. They face challenges from global competition and environmental regulation.
3. A balanced, realistic policy approach is essential to protect jobs and investments.
4. Collaboration between all stakeholders is necessary for sustainable industrial growth.

Europe’s steel and automotive industries are vital not only for employment but also for the continent’s technological future. They represent a large part of Europe’s exports and are key to the success of broader industrial ecosystems.

The joint call to action highlights that pragmatic, achievable steps are necessary. Only a realistic strategy will allow these sectors to innovate and grow sustainably, securing jobs and investments in Europe.

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