New tinplate lines in Belarus and Turkey could boost output significantly

 

JAKARTA (Scrap Monster): The proposed electrolytic tinplate lines in Belarus and Turkey are likely to boost production significantly. The plants are expected to capture considerable share of domestic market demand. The commissioning of the new plants is expected to increase exports from these countries to Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries and the European Union (EU) region. The two plants combined are expected to add 495,000 tpy to production capacities by 2018.

 

The tinning line in Turkey is expected to commence production by 2016. This is part of the planned $400 million steel mill to be constructed in Osmaniye, southern Turkey. The joint venture project between Turkey and Japan is led by Turkish Tosyali Holdings and Japanese Toyo Kohan. The proposed plant will produce construction steel sheets.

 

In addition, approximately 255,000 tonnes of tinplate is expected to be produced per annum. As per estimates, Turkish domestic tinplate demand amounts to 350,000-400,000 tpy. By commissioning the plant, the country aims to capture at least 50% of the market share. The demand for tinplates is forecast to remain buoyant in the near future. Also, the proximity of the plant to the Mediterranean will facilitate increased exports from the region.

 

The proposed Belarus rolling mill is expected to produce both tinplate and cold-rolled steel. The first production is slated for 2017. Belarus-based MMPZ-group has committed to invest around $220 million in the mill to be based in Miory. The initial capacity of the plant is projected at 150,000 tpy of tinplate, which will be increased to 240,000 tpy by end-2018.

 

The estimated yearly tinplate demand in Belarus is nearly 30,000 tpy. Commissioning of the tin plate facility will help the country to substitute its entire imports. Russia, being a major importer of tinplate, is a potential export market for tinplates produced in Belarus. Being part of the customs union makes exports easier also.