The European Commission has published the first official price for CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) certificates: €75.36 per tonne of CO₂ for Q1 2026.This marks an important transition point in the implementation of CBAM. What started as a reporting obligation is now evolving into a mechanism with tangible financial implications.
First CBAM price announced: €75.36 per tonne CO₂ (Q1 2026)
From reporting to pricing
During the transitional phase (2023–2025), companies were primarily required to report embedded emissions in imported goods. While this already required significant data collection and supplier engagement, the financial impact remained indirect.
With the publication of the first CBAM price, that changes.
The price is based on the average EU ETS allowance price and serves as the benchmark for future CBAM certificate costs. This means that carbon intensity will directly translate into financial exposure.
Why this first price matters
Although companies will only need to purchase CBAM certificates from 2027 onwards, this first price is highly relevant today:
- It provides a concrete reference point for carbon cost calculations
- It enables realistic scenario modelling
- It supports investment and sourcing decisions
- It prepares organizations for margin and pricing impacts
What should companies do now?
With a first price now available, organizations importing CBAM goods (such as steel, aluminium, cement, fertilizers, hydrogen and electricity) should:
- Quantify exposure
Map imported volumes and associated emissions - Model financial impact
Apply the €75.36/tCO₂ benchmark to understand potential costs - Engage suppliers
Improve data quality and explore lower-carbon alternatives - Integrate into strategy
Include CBAM in procurement, pricing and decarbonisation strategies
Looking ahead
The CBAM price will be published on a quarterly basis, meaning companies can expect increasing transparency but also increasing pressure to act.
The key question is no longer if CBAM will impact your business, but how much, and how soon.
Want to understand your CBAM exposure or build a business case?Get in touch or explore our services to support your organization in navigating CBAM and carbon pricing.
