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steel industry

Before the meeting in the Chancellery: “The steel summit must not become a circle of chairs”

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com November 5, 2025

written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Berlin – Germany’s steel industry is‌ pressing ⁤for swift action on electricity pricing and procurement ⁤policies ahead of a summit convened by⁤ Chancellor ⁣Scholz, scheduled to begin Thursday afternoon at the Chancellery. The core demand: ‌a competitive industrial electricity price and preferential treatment for domestically produced, climate-kind steel in government contracts.

The urgency ⁢stems from the ‍industry’s transition to⁤ electric production ⁤methods, wich require considerably lower⁢ energy ‍costs⁢ to remain competitive internationally. ⁣Economics Minister Robert Habeck announced Monday that a⁤ reduced electricity price ⁣is anticipated to take effect⁤ January 1, 2026, but the specific amount remains undisclosed. Together, steelmakers are advocating for “green steel” – produced with ⁣minimal environmental impact -‍ to be prioritized in public tenders, including railway vehicle purchases and publicly funded housing projects. The ⁤federal government is‍ also⁣ urged to ‍lobby at the EU level to credit automakers⁢ for utilizing green steel towards ⁤fleet emission limits, a topic⁢ previously discussed‍ during a recent automotive industry summit. A concluding document from Thursday’s meeting is not currently planned.

November 5, 2025 0 comments

News

Completion of the tariff in the northwest German steel industry

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com October 1, 2025

written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Northwest German steel Industry Braces for thousands of Job Losses‌ Amidst Mounting Crisis

Duisburg, Germany - October 26, 2023, 14:15 CET – The German steel industry is confronting a deepening ⁢crisis marked by dwindling demand, soaring energy costs, ‌and inexpensive imports, prompting industry leaders like Thyssenkrupp to announce plans for meaningful workforce reductions. The situation is notably acute⁣ in northwest Germany, were steel production is a cornerstone of the regional economy.

The confluence‍ of factors-a slowdown in the automotive ⁤sector,a major steel consumer;⁢ elevated energy prices exacerbated by geopolitical instability; and the financial burden of transitioning ⁣to greener steel production methods-is creating ‍an unsustainable⁣ environment for German steelmakers. Concurrently, tariffs imposed on steel imports into the United States, intended to provide relief, have proven insufficient to offset these challenges. These pressures ‍are now‌ culminating in concrete plans to dismantle capacity and eliminate jobs, signaling a possibly prolonged period of restructuring for the sector.

Thyssenkrupp, a major player in the German steel market, is reportedly planning to cut thousands ⁢of positions as ⁢part of a broader restructuring effort. The company’s moves reflect a wider ‌trend within the industry, where ⁤manufacturers are struggling to maintain profitability in the face of global headwinds. the German steel ⁣industry’s difficulties extend beyond domestic issues, with competition from lower-cost producers, particularly in China,‌ further eroding market share and⁣ driving ⁤down prices.

October 1, 2025 0 comments

World

US Steel Plant Explosion: Deaths, Injuries, and Investigation

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor August 11, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Massive Explosion Rocks US Steel Clairton Coke Works, Triggering Mass Casualty Response

Clairton, Pennsylvania – August 11, 2025 – A significant explosion and subsequent fire erupted at the US Steel Clairton Coke Works today, prompting a Level 3 Mass Casualty Incident and a large-scale emergency response.the blast, described as “thunderous” by witnesses, occurred at the facility located approximately 20 miles south of Pittsburgh, along the Monongahela River. Details regarding injuries are still emerging, but emergency crews are actively on the scene.

A worker at the plant, speaking anonymously to reporters, stated, “We were putting a new piece of equipment in, a new plant, we put it together and we knew something bad happened.”

The clairton Coke Works is the largest coke production plant in North America, a critical component of US Steel’s operations and a major employer in the region.It is indeed one of four primary US Steel plants within Pennsylvania, collectively employing thousands of workers.

Long-Standing Concerns & Recent Ownership Change

This incident adds to a history of safety and environmental concerns surrounding the Clairton facility. Amy Sowers, a lifelong resident of Clairton, noted she has witnessed multiple incidents at the coke works. She highlighted the economic constraints faced by many local residents, making relocation despite health concerns tough.

The plant has faced repeated scrutiny for environmental pollution. In 2019, US Steel agreed to an $8.5 million settlement (approximately 179 million Czech Koruna at today’s exchange rate) related to pollution violations. As part of the agreement, the company committed $6.5 million to reducing soot emissions and controlling harmful odors. Further lawsuits have alleged violations of air purity laws, including an incident in 2018 where a fire damaged equipment used to control sulfur pollution.

Adding another layer to the situation, US Steel was recently acquired by Japanese steel giant Nippon Steel in June 2025. The acquisition was approved by former US President Donald Trump with a unique stipulation: the US government received a “gold share,” granting it veto power over key corporate decisions, specifically preventing relocation of operations outside the united States.

US Steel: A Legacy Facing Modern Challenges

Founded in 1901 and headquartered in Pennsylvania, US Steel once stood as a symbol of American industrial strength. However,the company has struggled in recent years to compete with international steel producers. Beyond its domestic operations, US Steel also owns international assets, including the US Steel Košice ironworks in Slovakia (formerly the East Slovak Ironworks).

Details Not Previously Mentioned/expanded Upon:

Level 3 Mass Casualty Incident: This designation indicates a significant event requiring considerable resources and coordination between multiple emergency response agencies.
specifics of New Equipment: The anonymous worker’s statement hints at the incident potentially being linked to the installation of new machinery,which could be a focal point of the inquiry.
Gold Share Implications: The “gold share” granted to the US government is an unprecedented move, highlighting the strategic importance placed on maintaining US steel production within the country.
Exchange Rate Context: Providing the equivalent of the $8.5 million settlement in Czech Koruna offers a broader understanding of the financial impact.

August 11, 2025 0 comments

Business

Canada to Curb Steel Imports to Soften Blow From US Tariffs

by Priya Shah – Business Editor July 16, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Canada Curbs Tariff-Free Steel Imports to Aid Domestic Industry

Ottawa tightens quotas amid global trade pressures

Canada is implementing new restrictions on duty-free foreign steel, a significant policy shift aimed at bolstering its own producers grappling with international trade challenges. The move signals a protective stance as global market dynamics shift.

New Tariff Rate Quotas Introduced

The Canadian government will enforce tighter “tariff rate quota” levels for steel originating from countries without a free-trade agreement with Canada. Producers from these nations will be permitted to import only half of their previous year’s volume tariff-free. Shipments exceeding this threshold will face a substantial 50% tariff.

Steel-producing nations with established trade pacts, such as South Korea, will benefit from greater flexibility. These partners can continue exporting steel at 2024 levels before tariffs are applied.

Addressing U.S. Tariffs and Global Overproduction

Prime Minister **Mark Carney** stated that tariffs on U.S. steel remain unchanged as Canada negotiates a trade deal with the Trump administration before an August 1 deadline. He emphasized the dual pressure on Canada’s steel sector: “The current trade situation with the United States, and unfair trade practices from other countries — that combination guts our steel industry,” **Carney** said. “For Canada to build big things again, we need our steel industry to advance, not retreat.”

The Canadian Steel Producers Association lauded the government’s actions. CEO **Catherine Cobden** told BNN Bloomberg Television that the measures are “a big move forward.” She specifically applauded the 25% surtax on steel imports from countries other than the U.S. that contain steel melted and poured in China, highlighting China’s massive production capacity as a potential market disruptor.

Canada’s steel manufacturers have warned of substantial job losses due to tariffs. The industry reports reduced shipments and nearly 1,000 job cuts have already occurred. Canada has maintained a 25% retaliatory tax on U.S. steel products, choosing not to match U.S. levies.

Carney also noted that U.S. trade deals with other nations might incorporate high tariffs, potentially redirecting steel products into Canada’s more accessible market. “It’s important that we protect our market from those secondary effects,” he explained.

Support for Workers and Domestic Procurement

In a parallel move, the federal government is introducing changes to its procurement rules, mandating that companies holding government contracts must source steel from Canadian producers. This policy aims to create a domestic demand buffer for the industry.

Additionally, the government is allocating C$70 million (approximately $51 million) for training and income support for up to 10,000 affected steel workers. A C$1 billion fund is also being established to assist steel firms in advancing new projects. According to the World Steel Association, global crude steel production reached over 1.8 billion tonnes in 2023 (World Steel Association 2023).

Carney concluded, “We have the potential to become our own best customer for steel, but we will lose that ability if we don’t manage the profound transformation now underway in the industry.”

Shares of Algoma Steel Group Inc. saw a positive reaction, rising 4.5% in Toronto trading.

July 16, 2025 0 comments

World

Australia and China Cooperate on Green Steel Trade

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor July 14, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the provided text:

Australia and China‘s green Steel Partnership:

Opportunity for Growth: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese sees “green steel” as a way to strengthen Australia and China’s long-standing trade relationship. Paris Agreement Alignment: decarbonizing steel value chains is crucial for meeting the Paris Agreement goals, and this presents an opportunity for both countries to advance their economic interests.
Addressing Overcapacity: Albanese has offered to collaborate with China on reducing overcapacity in its steel industry, which is leading to increased exports and trade disputes with other nations.

Economic Implications for Australia:

Potential Revenue Loss: Australia coudl lose up to half its iron ore revenue if it doesn’t develop green iron production, as other countries adopt renewable energy in steelmaking.
Potential Revenue Doubling: Conversely, successfully establishing a green iron industry could double Australia’s revenue from the sector.what is green Iron?

Processing requirement: Australian iron ore is too low-grade for direct green steel production and requires an additional processing step.
Low-Carbon Production: When this processing uses renewable energy sources like hydrogen or biomass instead of coal, it’s called “green iron.” This then serves as a low-carbon base for green steel.

Industry Involvement:

major Miners are Investing: Top iron ore companies like Rio Tinto, BHP Group, and Fortescue are actively developing green iron projects. Fortescue’s Pilot Plant: Fortescue is scheduled to produce green iron from a pilot plant this year.

Broader Relationship Context:

business Trust is Key: Fortescue founder andrew Forrest emphasized that strong friendships and business trust between Chinese steelmakers and australian miners strengthen the bilateral relationship.
Security as a “distraction”: Forrest suggested that security concerns are a “distraction” from the economic relationship, especially in the context of China positioning itself as a more stable partner than the US. Past Diplomatic Issues: The text briefly mentions past diplomatic friction, such as Australia and New Zealand not receiving adequate warnings about Chinese naval drills in the Tasman Sea.

July 14, 2025 0 comments