The Arab Iron and Steel Union (AISU) convened its 129th Board of Directors meeting in Doha, Qatar, gathering senior leaders from the steel industry across the Arab world. The meeting, held at the Ritz-Carlton Doha, served as a crucial platform to discuss the future of the steel sector and key initiatives aimed at enhancing regional collaboration, particularly in the face of evolving global market conditions.
The Board of Directors meeting, attended by top executives from leading steel manufacturers, industry experts, and policymakers, focused on critical issues affecting the Arab steel industry, including technological innovation, sustainability, and geopolitical challenges. Among the key figures present were Dr. Kamel Djoudi, Secretary-General of AISU, and various representatives from member organizations.
Dr. Djoudi, who presided over the meeting, stressed the importance of continued cooperation among member countries to strengthen the region's steel sector. "In these challenging times, it is essential that we align our strategies and efforts. Our unity will be the key to navigating economic uncertainties, global competition, and the ongoing shifts in the steel market," he said.
A major highlight of the meeting was the discussion on integrating new technologies to boost the competitiveness and sustainability of Arab steel producers. With rising demand for environmentally friendly production methods, the Board agreed on the urgent need to invest in innovative solutions that reduce carbon footprints and enhance energy efficiency in steel manufacturing processes.
Mr. George Matta, Chief Marketing Officer at Ezz Steel and Head of AISU's Economic Committee, provided an update on the current economic conditions in Arab countries. He reviewed key insights from the ninth Economic Committee meeting held in Cairo, focusing on steel consumption rates across the region. His analysis highlighted market demand trends and economic factors that impact the steel industry’s performance in the Arab world.
Dr. Othman Al-Maliki, Vice President for Investment Affairs at Hadeed Company and Head of AISU’s Technical Committee, discussed the industry’s path toward carbon neutrality. He outlined steps that Arab steel companies are taking to transition to "green steel" production, following a major focus on this topic at the committee's recent meeting in Algiers. Dr. Al-Maliki emphasized the importance of reducing the sector’s environmental impact and advancing sustainability goals.
The Board also examined the global economic landscape, particularly the impact of geopolitical shifts and supply chain disruptions on steel production and trade. These challenges have placed significant pressure on steel producers in the region, highlighting the need for closer collaboration among Arab nations to mitigate risks and ensure long-term stability.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed ongoing projects and discussed new initiatives aimed at fostering research and development (R&D) in the steel industry. AISU aims to enhance the industry’s contribution to local economies by encouraging innovation and supporting national infrastructure projects with sustainable practices.
The Board also examined the progress of AISU's 2024 scientific research competition, which recognizes groundbreaking studies and innovations in steel production. The competition fosters greater collaboration between academic institutions and the steel industry to drive the development of future solutions that can improve production methods and environmental standards.
In key decisions, the Board approved the estimated budget for 2025 and welcomed two new members (The Iron and Steel Corporation for Economic Development and the Development Company for the Manufacture of Construction Materials from Iraq). The Board also confirmed that the 131st Board of Directors meeting would be held in Muscat, Oman, in 2025, along with the 18th Arab Steel Summit, which will take place in October of that year.
The meeting marked a significant step in shaping the future of the Arab steel industry, with a focus on economic growth, environmental responsibility, and expanding collaboration across member countries. With an emphasis on technology, sustainability, and unity, the 129th Board of Directors meeting set the stage for a more resilient and competitive future for the region’s steel sector.
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