SAIL (Steel Authority of India) in South Africa

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) Enhances Global Presence and Operations

New Delhi, October 16, 2025 – Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), India’s largest public sector steel producer, has been actively expanding its global footprint and enhancing operational efficiencies through strategic initiatives and partnerships.

Dubai Office Inauguration

In July 2025, SAIL inaugurated its first international representative office in Dubai, marking a significant step in its global expansion strategy. The office aims to bolster steel exports, deepen industry linkages, and reinforce trade ties between India and the Middle East. Dubai’s strategic location as a gateway to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region positions SAIL to tap into emerging markets and strengthen its international presence. (sail.co.in)

Partnerships for Sustainable Steel Production

SAIL has been actively pursuing collaborations to drive innovation and sustainability in steel production. In November 2024, SAIL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with John Cockerill India Limited to leverage cutting-edge technologies and green steel solutions. The focus areas include cold rolling and processing for carbon steel, green steel, and silicon steel, aiming to integrate green technologies into iron and steelmaking processes and enhance efficiency and sustainability. (sail.co.in)

In August 2023, SAIL partnered with SMS group to decarbonize steel production in India. The MoU signifies a commitment to implementing sustainable steelmaking practices, with a particular emphasis on reducing carbon emissions across SAIL’s integrated steel plants. SMS group will provide technological expertise, equipment supplies, and technical assistance for erection and commissioning projects at SAIL’s facilities. (engineeringnews.co.za)

Financial Performance and Market Challenges

SAIL’s financial performance has faced challenges due to market dynamics. In May 2025, the company reported a 13% decline in adjusted profit before exceptional items and taxes for the fourth quarter ending March 31, attributed to increased inventory costs. Despite a 5% rise in revenue to 293.16 billion rupees, overall expenses grew approximately 6%, driven largely by the new inventory charge. (reuters.com)

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In February 2025, SAIL experienced a significant decline in third-quarter profit due to low domestic demand and decreased steel prices amidst an influx of cheap imports. The net profit fell to 1.26 billion Indian rupees ($14.5 million) from 3.31 billion rupees the previous year, with revenue marginally increasing by 5% to 244.90 billion rupees. (reuters.com)

Strategic Initiatives and Future Outlook

SAIL is actively seeking to diversify its raw material sources to enhance supply chain stability. In September 2025, a company executive indicated that SAIL anticipates resuming coking coal supplies from its Mozambique joint venture within the next few months. This development is expected to improve operational efficiency and reduce dependence on other coal sources. (scanx.trade)

The company is also considering the establishment of a dedicated mining vertical to boost iron ore production. The proposed vertical would focus on optimizing mining operations across SAIL’s 15 iron ore mines in Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, aligning with the goal of reaching 35 million tonnes per annum by 2030. (m.economictimes.com)

SAIL’s proactive approach to international expansion, strategic partnerships, and operational enhancements underscores its commitment to becoming a globally competitive steelmaker and contributing to India’s economic growth.