ArcelorMittal South Africa has announced plans to cease operations at its long-products manufacturing facilities come September, the company confirmed today. The move follows negotiations with the South African government, which is actively engaged in discussions over the future of the steel plants. These long-product units include long steel items such as rebar and wire rods, essential in construction sectors. The planned shutdown is seen as a response to prolonged financial losses, rising energy costs, and structural inefficiencies that have challenged viability. Government representatives are involved in crisis talks aimed at averting job losses and ensuring continuity of production, with both parties exploring potential support mechanisms or restructuring scenarios. The shutdown announcement underscores the pressure facing South Africa’s steel sector as it confronts global competition and local economic strain.