Iran’s Middle East Mines Industries Development Holding Company (MIDHCO) reached a new milestone in its large-scale investment programme and officially inaugurated two projects. Moreover, the company continues working on its capacity expansions, adjusting projects timeline to the current market reality.
MIDHCO inaugurated two production facilities located in Kerman province on January 22 during the visit of Iranian vice president Eshaq Jahangiri on the sites of Bardsir Steel Making Plant and Butia Iranian Steel Company (BISCO), Metal Expert learnt. In particular, the company officially launched a 1 million tpy billet production at Bardsir asset, which in fact started commercial output in October 2018, as Metal Expert reported earlier. Currently, it supplies semis locally but evaluates export opportunities as well.
At BISCO, the officials inaugurated 2.5 million tpy pelletizing plant, which commenced operations back in July 2017, as Metal Expert reported earlier. Pellets are supplied mainly in Iranian free market until the launch of meltshop. At the same time, the 1.5 million tpy steelmaking unit is still on early stage of the development. “The progress is 36% now,” the company’s source said.
Apart from the mentioned projects, MIDHCO intends to launch Zarand Steel Making Plant with production potential of 1.7 million tpy in 2019. “Billet production may start not earlier than in six-seven months,” a company’s source told Metal Expert. The project schedule may be adjusted due to some challenges.
Currently, MIDHCO operates a 4 million tpy benefication capacity, a 2.5 million tpy pelletizing plant and a 1 million t steelmaking unit.
