Recent VRT-reports show that 2 out of 3 Belgian steel, cement and fertiliser companies are still insufficiently prepared for CBAM, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which will fully enter into force on 1 January 2026.
CBAM requires importers of products such as steel and iron from non-EU countries to report and offset the CO₂ emissions embedded in these products through the purchase of CBAM certificates. Companies that fail to prepare in time risk penalties, administrative complications and higher costs.
What does this mean in practice for distributors?
Companies must, among other things:
- assess whether their imports fall within the scope of CBAM,
- register as a CBAM declarant,
- request emissions data from non-EU suppliers,
- and prepare for annual reporting and the purchase of CBAM certificates from 2026 onwards.
In our recent newsletter, we already emphasised that taking action now is crucial, including for smaller importers.
Things to do
➡️ Start preparing to ensure compliance before 2026.
➡️ Map your imports, suppliers and administrative processes.
CBAM will have a direct impact on import costs and procurement strategy. Early preparation helps avoid unpleasant surprises.