The European Commission published, on 7 April 2026, the first reference price for CBAM certificates applicable to the first quarter of 2026, set at €75.36/tCO₂. This publication marks a key milestone in the gradual implementation of the mechanism, by finally providing an official price signal. It enables operators to anticipate their carbon exposure and adjust their import strategies accordingly.

Prior to the entry into force of the definitive regime of the CBAM on 1 January 2026, several key implementing acts were adopted by the European Commission in December 2025, providing clarification on the functioning of the mechanism: use of default values, purchase of certificates, carbon price benchmarks, and customs declaration procedures. Despite the absence of certificate purchase until 2027, many processes are to be implemented.