Swedish steel manufacturer SSAB is planning to further expand its business on the Chinese market.

The Asian market, of which China represents a major part, is expected to account for 20% of SSAB’s total output of niche products by 2015, compared to 7% in 2008.

A new investment in a finishing line in Kunshan will improve delivery performance, shorten lead times and provide value added service to Chinese customers. SSAB is now engaged in further strengthening its organization in mainland China by recruiting local talent.

Mr Olof Faxander CEO of SSAB said “There is no doubt in my mind that China will drive global demand for steel in the future. China is an increasingly important market for SSAB and we honor our long standing commitment to China by expanding our local organization and continuing to invest.”

Mr Martin Pei Asia Pacific president of SSAB added that “SSAB has the products and knowledge to build a much stronger position in China and the rest of Asia. Our approach to knowledge sharing has proven to be very successful. We provide our clients not only with material; our focus on customer care and support is just as important . We want to help our clients push the envelope as regards what is possible.”

As per release, there is strong demand for SSAB’s high strength steel from the booming Chinese heavy machinery and automotive industries. The Hardox, Weldox, Docol and Domex steels allows manufacturers to create stronger, lighter and more durable products.