The recent vote in the European Parliament on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) has triggered strong tensions. The debate focuses on the exemption of aluminum, as the implementation of this mechanism in January 2026 could increase aluminum production costs in Europe by between 24% and 31%. This increase poses serious risks to the sector’s competitiveness and could encourage further imports of aluminum from countries outside the European Union.
The Spanish Aluminum Association and Surface Treatments (AEA), which groups more than 650 companies, has expressed its concern about the economic impact this tax could represent. According to the AEA, the CBAM could promote deindustrialization at the local level, affecting not only foundries but the entire aluminum value chain, which could result in a significant loss of jobs.
Faced with these challenges, the AEA has requested an urgent dialogue with political authorities. The need to review the application of CBAM is imminent, especially after Thursday’s vote showed considerable support for the exemption of aluminum, with 187 votes in favor of this measure.
This context underscores the importance of aluminum, a strategic material for the European Union. The AEA is actively working to defend the interests of the industry, participating in the debate on the real impact of the CBAM on sector companies, both at the European and Spanish levels.
The AEA remains committed to defending the sectors it represents, promoting quality and sustainability in the industry, and managing various quality seals for aluminum treatments. The current situation emphasizes the need for a comprehensive analysis and an open dialogue before the review scheduled for October, highlighting the urgency of protecting the future of this essential industry in Europe.