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Tata Steel UK has commenced construction on a new 1.8 million tonne pickling line at its Port Talbot facility, a crucial part of the company’s £1.25 billion investment in low-carbon steel production. According to Andrew McGregor, Mills Program Manager, the current assets have reached the end of their useful life, and replacing the pickling line is essential for the plant to process various steels required by the company’s processing plants and customers.

The project involves dismantling the old floor and air ducts, which has already begun, and installing a new foundation for production in April 2026. In April this year, Tata Steel signed contracts with Clecim and ABB Limited to supply an advanced pickling line for the Port Talbot plant. The construction project is expected to employ 250 local residents.

This investment is significant for Tata Steel, particularly in the context of the company’s efforts to avoid US steel tariffs. Last year, Tata Steel purchased slabs from British Steel amid US demands for “melted and cast” steel to qualify for tariff exemptions. However, with the closure of the last blast furnace in the UK, Tata Steel’s Welsh plants rely on purchasing slabs from other sources.

The UK has postponed negotiations with the US on steel tariffs, seeking a permanent guarantee of a 25% tariff level instead. This development has significant implications for Tata Steel’s operations and investments in the UK. The new pickling line at Port Talbot is a critical step towards ensuring the company’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the steel industry.

The £1.25 billion investment in low-carbon steel production demonstrates Tata Steel’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact and transitioning to more sustainable production methods. The construction of the new pickling line is a significant milestone in this process, and the company’s efforts to modernize its facilities and operations will likely have a positive impact on the local economy and community.