How does CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) affect importers in the EU?

Quick Answer

CBAM (EU Reg. 2023/956) applies a carbon price to imports of cement, iron/steel, aluminium, fertilisers, electricity and hydrogen from non-EU countries. From 2026 (full implementation), importers must purchase CBAM certificates. During the transitional phase (2023–2025), only reporting was required. Companies must register in the CBAM registry.

Last updated: 30 June 2026

Sources

European Commission – CBAM Freight Academy – EU CBAM

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Recommended format: Source: Freight Academy – How does CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) affect importers in the EU? (https://www.freight-academy.com/en/answer/cbam-carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism-eu), accessed 2026-07-02
APA style: Freight Academy Editorial Team. (2026). How does CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) affect importers in the EU?. Freight Academy. https://www.freight-academy.com/en/answer/cbam-carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism-eu
BibTeX: @misc{howdoescbam2026, title = {How does CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) affect importers in the EU?}, author = {{Freight Academy Editorial Team}}, year = {2026}, url = {https://www.freight-academy.com/en/answer/cbam-carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism-eu}, note = {Freight Academy, accessed 2026-07-02} }

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