Several Russian sources have reported that the Russian pipe maker TMK Group is to complete its merger talks with Ukrainian pipe producer Interpipe in two weeks' time.
If the companies reach agreement on the merger conditions, the new combined company will be the world's largest producer of seamless pipes.
However, the sources state that TMK is not eager to merge with Interpipe under any conditions, but rather it is trying to negotiate the most beneficial terms. Otherwise, it is reported that the company will not proceed with the merger.