ArcelorMittal to stop ops at two Russian coal mines

ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel producer, is considering halting operations at two of its three Russian coal mines bought last year from competitor OAO Severstal until market conditions improve.

This, however, would be done if the company's proposed comprehensive programme of cost saving and restructuring of the workforce at Anzherskaya and Pervomayskaya mines does not result in sustainable operations of the mines, ArcelorMittal spokesperson said in an emailed company statement to PTI.

"...If the cost reduction programme does not result in sustainable operation of the mines, the process of temporary dry conservation of Anzherskaya and Pervomayskaya mines would be initiated until market conditions improve," the L N Mittal-led company said.

In Kuzbass territory of Russia, ArcelorMittal owns three mines -- Berezovskaya, Pervomayskaya and Anzherskaya -- besides the Severnaya washery. It had acquired the mines and associated assets for $720 million last year. At present, there are 5,830 employees working in these enterprises.

Facing the heat of the global economic slowdown that has led to challenging and unpredictable market conditions, the steel major said it would go for restructuring of the workforce at its Russian mines, which produced 2.7 million tonnes of coal and 1.3 million tonnes of coal concentrate in 2008.