Application of Union tariff rate quotas and other import quotas to certain products transferred to Northern Ireland

The European Parliament adopted by 617 votes to 2, with 3 abstentions, a legislative resolution on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2020/2170 as regards the application of Union tariff rate quotas and other import quotas to certain products transferred to Northern Ireland.

The European Parliament adopted its position at first reading in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure, taking over the Commission's proposal.

The Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) between the European Union provides for the opening by the Union of quotas with regard to imports into the Union of certain products originating in the United Kingdom. In addition, the TCA confers upon the Union the right to introduce tariff rate quotas or other import quotas with regard to imports of goods originating in the United Kingdom under certain circumstances, including as part of the application of multilateral safeguard measures in accordance with the WTO Agreement.

The proposal seeks to amend Regulation (EU) 2020/2170 so as to allow that the Union’s tariff rate quotas be available for certain steel products (Non Alloy and Other Alloy Quarto Plates, and Angles, Shapes and Sections of Iron or Non Alloy Steel) originating in the United Kingdom and subject to safeguard measures and that are brought into Northern Ireland by direct transport from other parts of the United Kingdom should also be eligible for treatment pursuant to Union import tariff rate quotas if those goods are released for free circulation in the territory of Northern Ireland.

The proposal also provides for the possibility for the Commission to adjust, by means of a delegated act, the list of steel products subject to safeguards for which Union’s tariff rate quotas will be made available, where appropriate.