This move is expected to significantly increase the Japanese company’s capacity in a key market. Celebrating its 122nd anniversary, US Steel’s purchase will boost Nippon Steel’s global raw steel production capacity to 100 million tons annually and expand its operations in the U.S., where steel prices are anticipated to rise following recent automotive industry agreements ending strikes.
The deal respects all commitments to US Steel’s approximately 23,000 employees, including collective agreements with unions. Nippon Steel’s Executive Vice President Takahiro Mori, citing the company’s 40-year presence in the U.S., expressed confidence in the transaction’s success and mutual benefit. “Standard Steel, our existing U.S. operation, has a history of positive union relations, and we foresee no regulatory or market issues,” said Mori.
Under the agreement, US Steel will retain its name and Pittsburgh headquarters.