At the recently concluded 17th Arab Steel Summit in Doha, Qatar, His Excellency Eng. Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs, called for urgent investments in advanced technologies to ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the Arab steel industry. The summit, which attracted over 550 key industry figures, including economists, business leaders, and steel producers, was organized by the Arab Iron and Steel Union in partnership with Qatar Steel Company.
During his keynote address, Minister Al Kaabi emphasized the growing challenges facing the steel sector, particularly in light of global economic shifts and ongoing geopolitical tensions. While the Arab world contributes 40 million tons of steel annually just 2% of global production—the Minister stressed that Arab countries must adopt cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices to increase their global market share.
“We are witnessing an era where the future will be defined by those who embrace innovation. The steel industry must invest in advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, and sustainable production methods if it is to remain competitive and meet future demand,” Minister Al Kaabi stated.
The Minister highlighted that, despite significant growth in infrastructure and real estate projects across the region, the steel industry still faces major challenges in keeping pace with global production standards. He pointed out that strengthening the position of Arab steel on the international stage will require joint efforts across the region, with a particular focus on technological adoption, research and development, and aligning with global sustainability goals.
Al Kaabi also addressed the environmental responsibility of the industry, urging manufacturers to prioritize reducing their carbon footprint. He stressed that balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship is essential to meeting the sustainability targets set by international bodies.
The summit also saw contributions from other industry leaders, including Dr. Kamel Djoudi, Secretary-General of the Arab Iron and Steel Union, who stressed the importance of innovation in making the industry more efficient and sustainable. Djoudi emphasized that the transition to "green steel" production—using new, environmentally friendly methods—will be key to reducing the sector’s environmental impact.
As part of the summit’s broader efforts to foster collaboration and innovation, the Arab Iron and Steel Union introduced a competition recognizing the best scientific research in the steel sector, with over 30 submissions from eight Arab countries. This initiative aims to build stronger connections between the scientific community and the steel industry, driving future advancements in both sectors.
The Arab Steel Summit served as a critical platform for discussing the future of the steel industry in the Arab world, with a clear focus on technological investment, sustainability, and innovation. As the industry adapts to new global challenges, the call for advanced technological integration has never been more urgent.
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