The case for 100000 tonnes/year integrated iron and steel plants for emergent countries

Abstract

The Development of an iron and steel industry is affected by many factors which vary considerably from country to country, and it is obvious that no overall rules can be laid down which would govern all eventualities. Nevertheless, the problem which faces many countries which are just emerging as iron and steel producers, shows certain similarities which can be summarized as follows: (i) in most cases, steelmaking is either non-existent or in comparison with the more developed countries, of extremely low capacity (ii) these countries often cover wide territories with under-developed communications systems (iii) these countries are usually associated with a relatively low standard of living. The raising of this standard for the greatest number of people is urgent (iv) capital for investment and foreign exchange is scarce and the demand on both is heavy.