FAQ
CBAM FAQ for importers and suppliers
For importers
Who has to file a CBAM declaration?
The EU importer, or its indirect customs representative, as an authorised CBAM declarant, files the annual declaration in the EU CBAM Registry. CBAMWorks prepares the supplier data; you or your customs representative submit it.
Read the guide →What happens if my supplier doesn't send data?
You use the EU default values, which include a mark-up that rises each year: +10 % for 2026, +20 % for 2027 and +30 % from 2028. A high default plus the mark-up is usually more expensive than real data from an engaged supplier.
Read the guide →Why doesn't electricity count for my steel imports?
For iron, steel and aluminium, only direct emissions count. The one exception is the indirect emissions of sintered-ore precursors, which carry into steel goods. Cement and fertilisers count both direct and indirect emissions.
Read the guide →Do my supplier's numbers need to be verified?
Yes. Actual values must be verified by an EU-accredited verifier before they can be used in a declaration. A physical site visit is required in the first verified year. Verifier registration opened on 1 September 2026; reports can be issued from January 2027.
Read the guide →Am I under the 50-tonne threshold?
The de-minimis threshold is 50 tonnes per importer per calendar year, counted across steel, aluminium, fertilisers and cement together. If you go over it, all of that year's imports are in scope. It does not apply to electricity or hydrogen.
Read the guide →For suppliers
What is O3CI, and do suppliers still need it?
O3CI is the CBAM Registry operator portal, where non-EU installation operators can register for free and share emissions data with their EU declarants. It is optional and runs alongside CBAMWorks — our exports are designed to be easy to enter into it.
Read the guide →