JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) − Steel and mining group ArcelorMittal on Tuesday started commercial iron-ore production from its mining operations in Liberia.

ArcelorMittal aims to ship four-million tons a year of iron-ore from Buchanan in Liberia by 2012. A test shipment took place last week.

The group first entered the Liberian market in 2005. “From the outset, the company has focused on creating a sustainable operation that can ultimately be run by Liberian nationals, ensuring maximum employment opportunities for local citizens.

“Quite apart from the significant impact this will have on the local economy, I’m also proud that our approach to this exciting new market represents best practice in terms of responsible business,” said ArcelorMittal head Lakshmi Mittal.

To date, ArcelorMittal has invested $800-million in projects such as the reconstruction of a 240-km railway, as well as port, hospital and school facilities.
 

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