The German steel industry has warned that persistent disruptions in rail freight transport are threatening the supply of crucial raw materials to steel mills, raising concerns about the stability of production across the sector.
In a statement on the current state of Germany's railway network, the German Steel Federation (WV Stahl) said that the transportation of iron ore and coal by rail is becoming increasingly problematic due to infrastructure work and operational disruptions.
Steel producers face increasing supply chain risks
According to Kerstin Maria Rieppel, managing director of WV Stahl, the current situation with rail shipments of iron ore and coal has become "extremely critical" for the steel industry. She stated that ongoing construction projects, operational disruptions and inadequately prepared waste disposal routes undermine the reliability of raw materials supplies to steel mills.
The Association warned that the problems have already begun to affect production at some enterprises.
The industry supports the modernization of the railway network
Despite the concerns, the steel association reiterated its support for the modernization and rehabilitation of Germany's railway infrastructure. However, the association stressed that the modernization of the network should not be carried out at the expense of maintaining the reliability of freight transportation for key industries.
Call for improved construction management
The Association called on DB InfraGO, the railway infrastructure operator, to improve construction management and ensure the functioning of industrial supply chains throughout the construction period. Network update.
According to W. V. Stahl, reliable access to raw materials is crucial for maintaining steel production and maintaining the competitiveness of the German industry.
Author: Stilorbis
Steelorbis.com
