The European steel industry faces major challenges, executives of ArcelorMittal reiterated during the company’s New Year’s reception in Differdange on Wednesday. China now produces 55 per cent of the world’s steel, while competition from the US is also growing.
To remain competitive, the Luxembourg-based steel group has set out a series of objectives, including substantial investments in infrastructure and new projects. Luxembourg produces approximately two million tonnes of steel each year.
Pierre Jacobs, CEO of ArcelorMittal Long Products Luxembourg, said the company has an important role to play in Europe, producing flat bars, beams, and rails used across the continent and worldwide. He expressed cautious optimism about the future, noting that Long Products Luxembourg employs around 2,000 people.
Modernisation work is ongoing in the Belval district, where the entire steelworks is being renovated. Jacobs said the company had recently brought a new electric arc furnace online and installed a degassing furnace. Work will continue on adapting the casting area during the second quarter of the year.
In addition to this, a €23 million project is also underway in Dudelange to capture dust generated by the site’s various processes, with the aim of collecting 85% of all dust produced.
ArcelorMittal has set a new safety objective for employees. By 2027, the company aims to achieve “zero fatality”, meaning no fatal accidents. In Luxembourg, numerous training programmes are being organised to improve safety for all employees and contractors.
