Upgradation of steel industry: Collaboration of Chinese EPC firms with local companies vital: expert

ISLAMABAD: “The growing population demands strong infrastructural support and a severe shortage of housing in Pakistan will require massive upgradation of Pakistan’s steel industry where collaboration between Chinese EPC firms and local industry is extremely crucial”.

This was stated by Dr Hassan Daud Butt during the meeting with General Manager Lv Xiufeng of China Energy International Group. Marketing Director of China Gazuba Peter Zhu was also present at the meeting. Dr Hassan has recently completed his assignment as CEO KP Board of Investment and joined FF Steel as an Advisor.

The CGGC is the largest Chinese buyer of steel rebars in Pakistan. The under-construction projects included Dasu, Sukhi Kinari, Azad Pattan, Mahmond and Balakot Hydroprojects, K3 Nuclear Power, and numerous other smaller projects.

It was informed that the consulting firm supervising the construction process of Diamer Basha Dam was also invited to visit FF steel factory and Dr Hassan showed readiness for a huge supply of special-grade steel rebars for this project.

Power China along with FWO is the main contractor for this mega project where almost 3-million-ton high-grade steel shall be consumed. Upcoming Chinese projects as agreed during Prime Minister’s visit to China like ML-1 and KCR shall also require Grade 60 Steel conforming to ASTM 615 and 706 Standards.

This big quantity can be arranged solely by local manufacturers. Mega SOEs from China specially CREC and CRCC have shown keen interest to participate in the construction of these upcoming projects. The local offices of these firms have already started the preparations.

General Manager Lv Xiufeng of China Energy International Group welcomed seasoned Projects Management and Investment Specialist Dr Hassan Daud Butt in the relevant industry and appreciated the fact that FF Steel will be greatly benefitted from the new advisor for Investments, International Projects, and new initiatives.

He stated that there are only a few experts who understand the scale and the technical information of industries of both countries and can help to bring together large Chinese and Pakistani enterprises.

Zarak, CEO FF Steel, while welcoming Dr Hassan, shared his strategic vision of the organisation and the importance of building a strategic relationship with clients and key stakeholders of the industry.“I believe in introducing state-of-the-art technologies and presenting new trends in the market through the high-performing team,” he added.

Being the lead producer of Grade-60 steel bars and the exclusive producer of Grade-80 bars, FF Steel is venturing into new avenues and marketing techniques to reach new heights to meet the expectations of valuable customers and develop a strong standing in the industry so as to enhance the economy of the country.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2022