Article 17

As regards release for free circulation in Bulgaria and Romania as of 1 January 2007 of the steel products covered by this Regulation, an import licence shall be required, even if the steel products have been shipped before that date. If the steel products are shipped to Bulgaria or Romania before 1 January 2007, the import licence shall be granted automatically without quantitative limitations on presentation of the bill of lading or another transport document deemed to be equivalent by the Community licensing offices proving the shipment date and after approval from the Commission's office responsible for the management of licences (SIGL). If the steel products are shipped to Bulgaria or Romania on 1 January or after that date, they shall be subject to the specific rules governing quantitative limits as defined in this Regulation.