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Kazakhstan’s Steel Industry: Surge in Activity and Upcoming $1.2 Billion HBI Plant Investment

Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) is embarking on a significant project to construct a $1.2 billion hot briquetted iron (HBI) plant in Rudny, Kazakhstan, as reported in ERG to build $1.2 billion HBI plant in Kazakhstan with Primetals and Midrex. This announcement, alongside Eurasian Resources Group to become global supplier of HBI, highlights a trend of increasing industrial activity within Kazakhstan’s steel sector, aligning with satellite data that shows substantial activity levels at local plants.

Bar chart and satellite map of steel production activity in Kazakhstan

In the past months, the mean activity has shown a notable fluctuation, peaking at 57% in September before dropping to 39% in October. The ArcelorMittal Temirtau steel plant’s activity has remained relatively stable around the 52% to 55% mark, while KSP Steel in Pavlodar observed a consistent increase from 57% to 61%. Despite the overall downturn in mean activity, KSP Steel’s rise to 61% aligns with the expanding market opportunities presented by ERG’s investment.

At the ArcelorMittal Temirtau steel plant, a key facility in Karaganda, activity has fluctuated but remains stable compared to the mean. Its capacity for 6 million tonnes of crude steel annually, produced primarily through integrated BOF processes, reflects a strong foundation for future growth, although the recent drop to 55% in October (a decrease of 2% from September) does not appear directly tied to ERG’s new project.

Conversely, KSP Steel Pavlodar has increased activity levels significantly over the recent months, reaching 61% in October. This rise can be potentially associated with the overall uplift in regional steel demand driven by upcoming HBI supply capabilities through ERG’s initiatives, enhancing competitive dynamics in the market.

In consideration of current market conditions, steel buyers in Kazakhstan should prioritize procurement from KSP Steel Pavlodar to capitalize on its rising activity and expanding production capabilities. ERG’s planned HBI plant positions Kazakhstan as a future global supplier, signaling potential supply shifts that could create sourcing opportunities. Innovations in production technology and planned job creation signal a very positive market atmosphere, making timely investments in steel supplies beneficial. Monitoring developments surrounding ERG’s project and its impact on regional supply chains will be crucial for making informed procurement decisions.