After 20 months of halted production at Huta Częstochowa, steelmaking has resumed. This secures the future of the industry in the city and reduces the threat of deindustrialisation in this part of Poland.
In an article published by Polish trade union PZZ Kadra, Mariusz Ciupiński, Chairman of MZZ KADRA Huta Częstochowa, expressed his immense satisfaction as production resumed. For now, all employees have returned to work. KADRA wants steel to be produced in the country, and this requires a responsible industrial policy. The start of production was possible thanks to the efforts of the Węglokoks group to conclude an agreement with the bankruptcy trustee regarding the lease of the steelworks.
Steel production restarted on 20 January, and the thick plate rolling mill is scheduled to recommence production on 28 January. Additionally, cooperating companies are preparing to resume their operations. There has been a court approval to conduct a tender for the sale of the steelworks, with offers opening on 17 February.
Judith Kirton-Darling, General Secretary of industriAll Europe, says: “IndustriAll Europe is advocating for a robust action plan to support European steelworkers. The success story in Częstochowa is a testament to the fact that with a clear strategy and industrial policy, steel production in Europe can survive the current crisis. This revival marks a new chapter for Polish and European steelmaking, which has faced significant challenges in recent years.“
“Trade unions have been at the forefront, advocating tirelessly for the resumption of production in Częstochowa. Their efforts, alongside support from Węglokoks and the Polish government, have been instrumental in making this comeback possible and this provides inspiration to challenging situations elsewhere. However, their long-term future depends on European action to tackle energy prices, unfair trade practices and support for local demand.”
For further information: https://www.kadra.org.pl/przemysl-stalowy-powraca-do-czestochowy/