Global status of crude steel production in Turkey in January-February 2014

More than 261 million tons of crude steel worldwide were produced in 65 countries represented by the World Steel Association during the first two months of 2014, an increase of 1.6 over the same period in 2013. China retained its first place in the list of crude steel production during this period with 130.8 million tons.

Turkey's steel production fell 0.1 percent in January-February this year to a total of 5.5 million tonnes. According to the Association of Turkish Steel Producers, Turkey's crude steel production in February 2014 amounted to 2.7 million tonnes, up 0.7 percent over the period in February 2013.

“Steel production facilities, which produce steel from scrap metal in electric arc furnaces, competed heavily in the market with other steel producers in the world. Domestic demand was also weak from January to February,” said Katlvhan Savas, an expert at the Association of Turkish Steel Producers.

Sawas also said steel imports in Turkey are more attractive after additional government environmental charges imposed on the industry, adding that these factors have undermined the competitiveness of steel firms in Turkey.

Steel production in Turkey fell 3.4 percent to a total of 34.7 million tonnes since 2013. Turkey has maintained its position as the eighth largest producer of crude steel in the world, accounting for about 2.15 percent of global steel production, according to the World Steel Association.