Iranian steel producers complain about imports
Iran's Steel Producers Association has pointed out to the fact that imported steel tonnage into Iran reached 3.6 million mts in the first six months of 2003. This quantity indicated a 120% increase compared to same period last year. Iranian steel producers stated that if the upward trend of steel imports continue, private sector steel production will have to face serious problems. According to the investigations executed by the private sector, the steel industry in the country has a 1.2 million ton capacity. Iran's Steel Producers Association officials expressed that they do not want to prevent steel imports. However, the difference should not be so huge between the profit margins of importer and producer. The duty for steel imports has been decreased from 36% to 16% taking the import costs to a very competitive level compared to the domestic consumption. Thus, for the steel consumers in Iran, using imported material becomes more attractive, a situation which stands as a threat for the Iranian steel industry. Major steel producers in the country are Navard Va luleh Ahwaz (Arpco), Iran Alloy Steel Co., Iran Spiral Co., Kalup Co., National Iran Steel Co. (Nisco), Sepahan Industrial Group Co.