Assofermet calls for production continuity and transparency at Taranto steel plant

Italian steel trade and processing association Assofermet has called for production continuity at the Taranto steelworks and greater transparency over plans for the site, describing its revitalisation as strategically important for the country's downstream steel industry.

The association welcomed the Italian government's efforts to secure the future of the historic plant, currently operated by Acciaierie d'Italia (ADI) under extraordinary administration. Assofermet said the site could become an increasingly important domestic supplier as the EU tightens restrictions on steel imports from third countries.

Hot-rolling operations a key concern

Assofermet highlighted uncertainty surrounding Taranto's hot-rolling mill and the potential consequences for downstream companies as the tender process for the steelworks continues.

The association said maintaining production and safeguarding employment should be priorities, particularly following a July 27 ruling by the Milan Court of Appeals ordering the hot-rolling production area to close by October 28.

Assofermet, which represents companies active in steel trading and processing downstream of primary production, also wants to be involved in discussions surrounding the consortium formalised by Italian steelmakers' association Federacciai on August 18. It said developments around the consortium could have significant repercussions for the wider steel supply chain.

The association called for the conditions governing participation in the consortium to be made public, accessible and transparent. It argued that such an approach would help ensure the restructuring of Taranto strengthens the competitiveness of the entire Italian steel value chain.

Source and Photo: Assofermet