ArcelorMittal: Second Reading on Nationalization in French National Assembly

Paris – 06/11/2026: On June 11, 2026, the French National Assembly held the second reading of a bill to nationalize ArcelorMittal France. Following initial approval in November 2025 and rejection by the Senate in February 2026, the proposal was once again debated. The renewed reading was accompanied by the CGT union and left-wing deputies who had previously demonstrated their support.

The demonstration in front of the National Assembly was organized by CGT ArcelorMittal and the Fédération CGT de la métallurgie. Several hundred participants took part, including employees from French steel plants and representatives of left-wing parties such as Jean-Luc Mélenchon, Clémentine Autain, François Ruffin, Benjamin Lucas, and Raphaël Arnault. Sophie Binet, Secretary General of the CGT, also supported the protest. They called for increased state control over the steel giant to secure industrial jobs and strengthen France’s industrial sovereignty.

The legislative initiative was introduced by deputy Aurélie Trouvé and members of the La France insoumise-Nouveau Front populaire faction. It envisions the nationalization of the company, combined with the establishment of a commission to assess the company’s value for a possible state acquisition. Supporters argue that state control is necessary to ensure long-term steel production in France.

Opponents from the government and Senate warn of financial burdens and potential competitive disadvantages for the industry. Instead of nationalization, they propose investments in environmentally friendly technologies such as decarbonization.

Despite the controversy, the National Assembly voted in favor of the bill again. The final decision now lies with the Senate, which voted against it in the first reading. Should the Senate approve, it would mark a significant step in French industrial policy.

ArcelorMittal itself points to its investment strategy, such as the construction of an electric furnace with a budget of 1.3 billion euros in Dunkirk, and emphasizes that nationalization would not solve the industry’s challenges. The company continues to see itself as an important player in steel production in France.

The debate on ArcelorMittal’s nationalization shapes the discussion about France’s industrial future, especially regarding competitiveness, sustainability, and the influence of state intervention. The Senate’s decision in the coming weeks is eagerly awaited as it will significantly determine the direction of national industrial policy.

This dispute highlights the far-reaching challenges facing the French steel industry, particularly in terms of economic stability, ecological transformation, and political governance. The outcome could serve as a model for other sectors and redefine the state’s approach to key industries.