Mittal Steel USA has begun the sale of steel for export that will continue on an ongoing basis, says Michael G. Rippey, president and chief executive officer of the Chicago-based subsidiary of Arcelor Mittal. The export program is being instituted “to take advantage of the strength of the global market and the resources of Arcelor Mittal International, the parent company's global trading arm,” he says.

Sales are initially targeted at 200,000 tons during the second quarter from several of the company's U.S. plants. “Traditionally, Mittal Steel USA and its predecessor companies have not been active exporters,” says Rippey. “However, with the continuing strength in the global market, we plan to aggressively seek new opportunities that fit our capabilities.”