Benghazi is set to play host to a significant new industrial partnership following the announcement of a landmark deal between Turkish steel producer Tosyali and Libya United Steel Company (SULB Libya).

Together, the two companies plan to build what is expected to be the largest direct reduced iron producing facility in the world. The project has been developed under the leadership of Ahmed Gadalla, Chairman of SULB Libya. Gadalla has described the project as a vital step towards strengthening Libya’s industrial sector.

The project will be built in Ras Al-Mangar, east of Benghazi. It is seen by many as an encouraging sign for Libya’s industrial future, representing a vote of confidence in the country’s broader economic potential.

Covering around 380 hectares, the facility is expected to produce up to 7.5 million tonnes of direct reduced iron per year. In turn the facility will considerably strengthen Libya’s position as an increasingly important global producer of steel.

Beyond its size and production capacity, the project will also see a concerted focus on sustainability. As industries around the world look for cleaner and more efficient ways to operate, the planned complex has developed plans to reduce its environmental impact. Specifically, the project will set the ambitious aim reduce energy consumption by 25% and carbon emissions by 30% compared with more traditional steel production methods.

The project reflects a broader move towards greener manufacturing practices, which are increasingly becoming the benchmark for heavy industry. This, according to industry observers, comes at a time when Libya has the opportunity to gradually expand its role in international industry and export markets.

References:
1.“Tosyalı Sulb Steel Industries Joint Company.” Tosyalı Holding,
www.tosyaliholding.com.tr/en/our-scope-of-activity/group-companies/international-su
bsidiaries/tosyali-sulb-steel-industries-joint-company