It is reported that Mr Victor Rashnikov chairman of Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works, which is thinking about building a plant in Scioto County, also said that his company is considering a site in Quebec for the plant.

He discussed the project during a meeting with Governor Ted Strickland and Lt Governor Lee Fisher on the campus of Shawnee State University. Mr Rashnikov said that 500 people would be employed during the initial development of the plant. But he declined to elaborate further. Mr Rashnikov while speaking through an interpreter said that he hoped to have environmental permits for the site by November, which would allow the deal to possibly be completed by the end of the year.

Mr Strickland said the meeting was a significant step in the process, although no agreement has been reached.