News: Import

New burden of proof for steel imports into the EU from 1 October 2026

From 1 October 2026, companies importing certain steel products into the European Union will face a new customs requirement. Importers must indicate the country of melting and pouring in their customs import declaration.

This new obligation applies to steel products listed in Annex I of Regulation (EU) 2026/1384 and forms part of the EU’s efforts to improve traceability and transparency within the global steel supply chain.

What changes from 1 October 2026?

When submitting an import declaration, importers must provide information on the country where the steel was melted and poured.

To facilitate this requirement, the following codes have been introduced:

  • C-codes C131 to C139 for supporting evidence;
  • Y-codes Y376 to Y387 for the country of melting and pouring.

The required evidence must be available when the import declaration is lodged.

Which supporting documents are accepted?

To demonstrate the country of melting and pouring, importers must have one of the following documents available.

Mill Test Certificate

The preferred supporting document is the Mill Test Certificate (MTC) issued by the rolling mill. Where necessary, this certificate must be supplemented with information identifying:

  • the country of melting and pouring;
  • the heat number.

Alternative supporting documents

If a Mill Test Certificate is unavailable, Customs may accept alternative evidence, provided the documents clearly indicate both the country of melting and pouring and the heat number.

Examples include:

  • Invoices
  • Delivery notes
  • Quality certificates
  • Clauses in purchase orders or contracts
  • Long-term supplier declarations
  • Accounting or production records
  • Customs documents from the exporting country
  • Commercial correspondence
    Product descriptions

Important: stricter requirements from October 2027

Importers should be aware that the transitional arrangement is time-limited.

From 1 October 2027, alternative supporting documents will only be accepted as supplementary evidence. A Mill Test Certificate will then become mandatory and must always accompany the import documentation.

What should importers do now?

Companies importing steel products should contact their suppliers as soon as possible to ensure they can provide the required information before shipment and importation.

Taking proactive steps today can help prevent customs delays, additional checks, and potential compliance issues once the new rules take effect.

How can Remant Customs help?

Remant Customs closely follows regulatory developments and supports importers in preparing compliant customs declarations.

Please note that while the legislation specifies which supporting documents may be used, it does not define the exact wording or level of detail required. As a result, Remant Customs cannot guarantee in advance whether Customs authorities will accept specific documents.

If you would like to discuss how these new requirements may affect your import flows, our customs specialists are happy to assist.

For more information, please consult the following regulations:

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