Synopsis:
The Indian government scraps the privatisation plan for SAIL's Salem Steel Plant after a failed bid process. Initially seeking global buyers in 2019, the lack of interest from shortlisted bidders led to the termination of the sale. This echoes similar failed attempts with other SAIL units, marking a trend of disinterest in strategic sales within the steel industry.
Article
In a recent development, the Indian government has opted against the privatization of the Salem Steel Plant (SSP) owned by Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL). Initiated in 2019, the global call for Expressions of Interest (EoIs) failed to garner substantial interest from potential buyers, resulting in the annulment of the sale.
The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) confirmed the termination, citing the reluctance of shortlisted bidders to proceed with the transaction. This decision aligns with previous occurrences involving other units of SAIL, Alloys Steels Plant (ASP) and Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant (VISP), both witnessing unsuccessful attempts at strategic sales.
This cancellation comes after the approval for the strategic sale of three SAIL units by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) in 2018. Despite government efforts to privatize state-owned steel plants, the trend of inadequate buyer interest persists.
The failure of this privatization attempt reflects a larger challenge within the steel industry. Previous instances of aborted sales indicate a recurring pattern of disinterest from potential investors, raising questions about the attractiveness of state-owned steel assets.
This move signifies a setback in the government's plans for strategic disinvestment, raising concerns about the feasibility of privatization in the steel sector. It underscores the need for reevaluation in attracting investors to state-owned steel entities, crucial for fostering growth and competitiveness.
Conclusion:
The government's decision to halt the privatisation of SAIL's Salem Steel Plant echoes previous failed attempts within the steel industry. The lack of buyer interest not only derails this particular sale but also highlights a broader trend of disinterest in strategic sales of state-owned steel assets. This setback emphasizes the challenges in enticing investors and underscores the necessity for re-strategizing to make these assets more appealing in the market.
Source: STEELGURU
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