New EU Steel “Melt & Pour” Rule – Effective October 1, 2026

A major EU steel traceability regulation took effect on 1 Oct 2026. It heavily affects machinery and pump shipments into Europe.

The EU follows the Melt & Pour principle to define steel origin now. Steel components no longer get their origin from where the product is finally assembled. Instead, origin is decided by the country where steel is melted, poured and cast.

For centrifugal pump manufacturers and exporters, this rule covers all steel pump components. That includes stainless steel pump casings, castings, flanges and steel base frames.

Mandatory Customs Requirements
EU importers need to declare the steel's melt-and-pour country during customs clearance, and provide valid supporting paperwork:
Official MTC (Mill Test Certificate) with clear heat numbers and steel melt country details.

There is a 1-year transition window ending on 1 Oct 2027. Within this period, additional documents such as commercial invoices, supplier declarations and production records can serve as supporting proof.

Shipments missing complete traceability paperwork risk customs checks, cargo detention and extra tariffs.