On 7 April, the European Commission published its first CBAM certificate price for 2026. This price applies to certificates for CBAM-covered goods imported in the first quarter of the year. Set at €75.36, it reflects the weighted average of auction prices under the EU Emissions Trading System, ensuring a level playing field between EU producers and importers.
Certificate prices for the remaining three quarters of 2026 will be published quarterly, in each case in the week following the relevant quarter, as set out below:
- second quarter of 2026: 6 July 2026
- third quarter of 2026: 5 October 2026
- fourth quarter of 2026: 4 January 2027
The CBAM certificate prices determined for each quarter must always be applied to CBAM‑covered goods imported during that specific quarter. From 2027 onwards, the European Commission will publish CBAM certificate prices on a weekly basis.
Although CBAM certificates will only become available to purchase from February 2027, the advance publication of 2026 prices provides importers with early price visibility and enables them to prepare for compliance by means of preliminary calculations. By publishing certificate prices weekly, the authorities aim to reduce the risk of reliance on incorrect or unofficial data when calculating the cost of CBAM certificates in the future.
The acquisition of CBAM certificates will be mandatory for importers in order to cover the embedded emissions of the relevant products. Compliance with this obligation will require advance preparation. Accordingly, affected parties are advised to take the following steps as soon as possible:
- estimate their expected costs based on CBAM certificate prices and incorporate these costs into pricing
- monitor EU ETS prices for forecasting, as these form the basis of CBAM certificate pricing
- establish and maintain accurate CBAM emissions tracking and reporting systems to ensure timely and proper fulfilment of CBAM payment obligations
- review commercial contracts and supply chains where necessary
KPMG experts are pleased to support companies in meeting their CBAM-related obligations, including exposure identification, performing preliminary calculations, designing compliant processes and records, and facilitating engagement with authorities and suppliers. Contact us to support your CBAM readiness and compliance.
