The LaGrand Team using the Steel Intelligence Solution

From the Field to the Dashboard – Built by Experts, for Experts.

Discover What's Really Happening in the Steel Industry

Use the AI-powered search engine to analyze production activity, market trends, and news faster than ever before.

Try the Free AI Search Engine

Albania’s Steel Market on the Rise: Kurum’s €150 Million Investment Propels Activity Forward

Albania’s steel sector is poised for significant growth following Kurum International’s announcement of a €150 million investment to build a MIDA plant in Elbasan. The articles Kurum International invests €150 million for new MIDA plant in Albania and Kurum to build Danieli MIDA plant in Albania underscore the strategic importance of the new facility, coinciding with observable increases in operational activity at Kurum’s existing operations. Recent satellite data shows a positive upward trend in activity at the Kurum International steel plant, aligning with these developments.

Bar chart and satellite map of steel production activity in Albania

Activity data indicates noteworthy fluctuations: after a decline in August (39.0) compared to July (49.0), the activity levels at the Kurum plant peaked in September at 53.0 before rising again to 58.0 in October. Notably, the Kurum International Elbasan steel plant is achieving higher activity levels than the mean across all observed plants, which recorded 39.0 for August. The positive momentum reflects Kurum’s commitment to innovative technologies, as detailed in the aforementioned news articles, correlating with the plant’s enhanced operational efficiency and alignment with European sustainability standards.

The Kurum International Elbasan steel plant, with a crude steel capacity of 700,000 tonnes and the capability to produce iron and steel billets, is equipped with Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology. The integration of Danieli’s MIDA technology is expected to further optimize production while minimizing environmental impact, reinforcing their established reputation for responsible steel production.

Given the positive activity trends seen alongside Kurum’s investment for the new MIDA plant, steel buyers should consider the following procurement strategies:
Long-Term Contracts: Engage with Kurum International for long-term supply agreements to capitalize on anticipated increased production capability.
Monitor Regulatory Developments: Stay updated on European green steel certifications, as this may affect pricing and availability.
Diversify Supply Chains: With potential supply disruptions being minimal at the Kurum plant, diversifying sourcing from other local or regional suppliers may hedge against unforeseen operational adjustments during the plant’s ramp-up phase.

The strategic investments in Albania’s steel market present an opportunity for buyers to align with a growing supplier while ensuring compliance with evolving sustainability standards.