From January 1st, 2026, financial obligations under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) have officially come into effect in the European Union. Importers of steel, aluminum, and heavy industrial products are now required to pay for CO₂ emissions generated during the production of goods outside the EU.

Brussels’ goal is to level the playing field between domestic producers and foreign suppliers. However, the launch of the mechanism has already triggered a wave of criticism:

Trade tensions: The United States, China, India, and Russia have labeled the measures as protectionist. Washington has previously warned that CBAM could create significant barriers between transatlantic partners.

Conflicts with the WTO: Several countries question whether the tax complies with the rules of the World Trade Organization.

First exemptions: Egypt has become the first country to officially request an exemption from the system, while simultaneously developing its own domestic carbon tax.

Experts fear that the new rules could exacerbate the crisis in international trade amid the tariff policies of other major players.

Read more in the Euronews article: ru.euronews.com

ORIENT