Khartsyzk Pipe processes large Central Asian order

Khartsyzsk Pipe (HRTR UK) plans to purchase 44 kt of strip (flat rolled semi product for pipe production) in September from Metinvest-affiliate Azovstal (AZST UK), compared to 3 kt purchased in August, Metal Courier reported yesterday. According to the information agency, Khartsyzsk Pipe is working on a large order from Central Asia, though no volumes were disclosed.

Roman Topolyuk: The large purchase of semi product by Khartsyzsk Pipe suggests we will see more large diameter pipes production from the company in September. This implies the enterprise will return to a more normal 30-40 kt per month or more, compared to lows of 3-5 kt per month seen this summer. We maintain our production forecast for the company of 400 kt in 2012.