ArcelorMittal Méditerranée will temporarily shut down one of its two blast furnaces at Fos-sur-Mer, Kallanish learns from a company spokesperson. Blast furnace number 1, which is currently idle for technical reasons, will not resume production following maintenance, until market consumption improves.
“The demand situation will be reassessed by the end of the first quarter of 2024. During this period, adaptation measures will be put in place, with priority given to staff training and measures to ensure the long-term viability of the industrial facilities. Maintaining continuity of service for our customers remains our priority,” the spokesperson comments.
ArcelorMittal Méditerranée is continuing to invest in decarbonising the site and ensuring its long-term viability. This includes the future installation of an electric arc furnace, as well as the ongoing construction of a ladle furnace for €73 million ($77m), which will increase the use of recycled steel.
The new EAF will be operational from 2027 and will replace one blast furnace by the end of the decade. ArcelorMittal has two blast furnaces at Fos-sur-Mer.
The French government will support the overall project with an investment of €1.7 billion. ArcelorMittal and the French government signed last year a strategic partnership for these investments (see Kallanish passim).
Natalia Capra France
