Russia-based TMK, one of the world's leading oil and gas steel pipe producers, has stated that it is satisfied with the terms and conditions as per a special pricing agreement on large diameter (LD) pipe shipments for Russian gas monopoly Gazprom. Signed on September 25, the agreement is viewed by TMK as a positive development to contribute to the company's financial and operating performance.
The new conditions will improve TMK's capacity utilization planning and sales mix. The prepayments will enable the company to incrementally reduce its debt. TMK expects to see improved financial and economic indicators in its LD pipe segment given the existing pricing arrangements with Gazprom and raw materials suppliers, better capacity utilization and the more favorable product mix.