In a remarkable display of industrial resilience, Zaporozhstal, the Zaporizhzhya-based metallurgical giant, has reported substantial growth in its production figures for the first seven months of 2024. This surge in output comes despite the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine's industrial sector, highlighting the plant's critical role in the country's economic landscape.
According to the company's statement, as reported by Ukrainian media, Zaporozhstal's production of rolled steel products saw a dramatic increase of 38% year-on-year, reaching 1.435 million metric tons between January and July 2024. This significant uptick in rolled steel output is a clear indicator of the plant's operational efficiency and its ability to meet growing market demands.
The growth trend extends beyond rolled steel products. Steel production at the plant also experienced a substantial boost, rising by 37.9% compared to the same period last year, with output reaching approximately 1.737 million metric tons. This increase in steel production underscores Zaporozhstal's commitment to expanding its core operations and reinforcing its position as a key player in Ukraine's steel industry.
Pig iron production, a fundamental component in the steelmaking process, saw a notable increase as well. The plant reported a 27.1% year-on-year rise, with production figures nearing 1.79 million metric tons. This growth in pig iron output is crucial, as it provides the necessary raw material for the plant's increased steel production activities.
Focusing on the most recent month's performance, Zaporozhstal's July 2024 figures further illustrate the plant's productive capacity. In July alone, the company produced 261,900 metric tons of pig iron and 250,800 metric tons of steel. Additionally, it successfully shipped 202,000 metric tons of rolled products, demonstrating strong demand for its finished goods.
These impressive figures for 2024 follow a strong performance in 2023, where Zaporozhstal significantly boosted its production across all categories. Last year, the plant increased its rolled products output by 1.6 times, steel production by 1.7 times, and pig iron by 35.3% compared to 2022. Notably, the plant managed to operate at an average capacity of 70% throughout 2023, showcasing its operational resilience.
