Iran Ups steel exports by 64% in first half

Iran said it has boosted export of crude steel and steel products by 64% in the first half of the current Iranian calendar year (started on March 21, 2011). According to the Iranian Mines and Mining Industries Development and Renovation Organization, Iran's steel export value reached $264.4mln in the first half of the current Iranian year up 64%. Iran exported only $161mln of crude steel and steel products during the same period last year. During the first half of this year (March 21-September 22, 2011), around 658,000 tons of different steel products were exported. Round bar and iron beam exports indicated 188% and 140% growth respectively during the period.