Blockade of ports: “Zaporizhstal” lost two large sales markets
26.05.2023 - 12:40
Metallurgical plant “Zaporizhstal” lost sales markets in Asia, in particular in Turkey, and in North Africa. Supply was redirected to Europe.
As a result of the full-scale war of the Russian Federation in Ukraine, the Zaporizhia metallurgical plant “Zaporizhstal” lost its sales markets. We are talking about the countries of Asia, in particular Turkey, as well as the countries of North Africa, said the general director of the enterprise Roman Slobodyanuk in an interview with RFI.
Currently, the “Zaporizhstal” combine has reoriented the supply of metal products to Europe, where it is easier to reach by land.
“After the occupation of the shores of the Sea of Azov by the Russians and the blockade of the Black Sea ports of Ukraine, it was necessary to find new ways of supplying products and raw materials necessary for blast furnaces,” said Roman Slobodyaniuk.
Read also: Export of metals through ports. Is there a chance?
At the same time, the company’s work is affected by its proximity to the front and regular Russian shelling.
“Production is continuous. If we suddenly stop him, a dangerous situation will arise,” explained Zaporizhstal line manager Artem Kalinievich.
Currently, the plant is operating at 70% of its capacity. Production rates partially recovered in April 2022. The enterprise now employs 8,000 people compared to 10,000 15 months ago. Another thousand workers were drafted into the army.
As previously reported by USM, Ukraine wants to expand the Istanbul Grain Export Agreements and add steel supplies to them to support the country’s economy.
Certificate. “Zaporizhstal” is one of the largest industrial enterprises of Ukraine, the products of which are in wide demand among consumers both in the domestic market and in many countries of the world. The plant’s specialization is high-quality steel g/k roll, g/k sheet, cold-rolled sheet, h/k roll made of carbon and low-alloy steels, as well as steel strip, black tin, bent profile.
“Zaporizhstal” is in the process of integration into the “Metinvest” group, the main shareholders of which are PJSC “System Capital Management” (71.24%) and “Smart-holding” group of companies (23.76%).
