06 June 2025

COMMISSION LAUNCHES IMPORT SURVEILLANCE TOOL TO SAFEGUARD EU MARKETS

The European Commission has launched a new import surveillance tool to prevent harmful trade diversion and protect EU industries from sudden surges in imports. Trade diversion arises when goods that face restrictions or tariffs in other markets are rerouted into the EU, potentially disrupting local markets.

By harnessing customs data, the new system provides early warning of such shifts, allowing the Commission to act swiftly to mitigate negative impacts. To support this effort, EU manufacturers, industry associations, and Member States are encouraged to consult the tool and provide additional insights on market developments.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy led by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, including the creation of a dedicated task force. This group monitors EU import data via an internal dashboard, focusing on trends since 1 January 2025, and identifies products with abnormal import spikes. Results will be regularly shared online.

The Commission is also launching a dialogue with China to monitor potential trade diversion and coordinate responses to emerging risks. These efforts underline the EU’s commitment to maintaining fair competition and protecting its economic resilience in an increasingly volatile global trade environment.

Source: European Commission