Al Gharbia Pipe Company has begun commercial production of large diameter sour grade steel pipes for uses in the construction and energy industries, the National reported.

The UAE-based company is a joint venture (JV) between Senaat and Japanese firms JFE Steel Corporation and Marubeni-Itochu Steel.

The company’s manufacturing plant was set up in 2016 at the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD), with about AED 1.

1 billion in investments. The plant’s full annual production capacity is set to reach 240,000 tons, with 40% of production set to be directed towards exports.

“The successful commencement of production and the first order awarded by [the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company] ADNOC at Al Gharbia Pipe Company demonstrates our commitment to local production of high-quality steel pipes,” said Aqeel Abdulla Madhi, Al Gharbia Pipe Company Chairman.

“The project further strengthens the UAE’s industrial capabilities and the Made-in-UAE brand, while helping reduce dependence on sour grade steel pipes import and reinforcing the country’s export potential, creating jobs and business opportunities,” Madhi added.