Two steelmakers in Pakistan resumed operations at their plants in the state of Sindh on Monday after observing temporary shutdowns to contain the spread of COVID-19.
International Industries Limited (IIL) announced the gradual restart of its operations at three production sites in Karachi, Landhi, and Lahore starting from Monday. IIL noted in press release the resumption of the plant operations will focus on exports.
Another Pakistani steelmaker, Mughal Iron and Steel, followed with an announcement that it was commencing plant operations and offices effective Monday. Mughal Iron and Steel produces billet, rebar, and beams.
Both the companies’ plants are in the Sindh province which recently announced the reopening of ships and markets (except plazas and malls) starting Monday. However all businesses will operate only until 5pm after which, the state will be under a complete lockdown.
IIL produces GI pipe, steel tubes and pipes, API line pipe & polyethylene line pipes globally. The company has a manufacturing capacity of 300,000mt of small diameter steel pipe with OD range (12.70mm – 168mm).
According to the Mughal Iron and Steel’s 2019 annual report, the company’s furnaces produced 175,187mt of steel while the overall production of rolling mills was reported at 343,407mt.