Andrea Mazzarano of POMINI Long Rolling Mills highlights global material trends, the push for efficiency and green solutions, and the key challenges and potential he sees in the Indian steel ecosystem.

India’s stainless steel industry is growing as the country continues to develop and modernise. Stainless steel is a specialised material with high strength, durability, and unique uses, which makes it important for many industries. As demand increases, companies from around the world are paying more attention to the Indian market and exploring new opportunities here. The country’s rising consumption, expanding production plans, and focus on better technology are creating strong possibilities for future growth.

Andrea Mazzarano, Senior Advisor for Digital and Product Sustainability at POMINI Long Rolling Mills, shared that he has been based in India since September 2024, operating from the company’s small office near Delhi to support its participation in the country’s growing steel market. Speaking to Team Stainless Today at the Global Stainless Steel Expo (GSSE) 2025, he shared his thoughts on India’s rising importance as a long-term market, the increasing demand for high-grade stainless steel, and the opportunities created by new plant investments.

What do you think of this exhibition as a platform for the stainless steel industry?

I think it is a good idea because stainless steel is a very specific material. It is high grade and high cost, with unique characteristics. It is quite different from carbon steel. This platform gives us a place to meet other suppliers and potential customers, which is a good opportunity for us.

How do you see India as a market for your company?

India is a very important market. It is one of the few economies that has been growing for many years and is expected to keep growing. Steel consumption here is around 90 kilos per person, while in Italy it is about five times more. This shows how much scope there is for growth. The government has plans to increase the country’s steel production capacity. Companies will need new plants, and we are here to offer our technological solutions.

How much of your business comes from India?

We have been present in India since the early 1980s. We have around twelve to fifteen customers here. Our share of the market and turnover is still limited, but we are growing in aftermarket spare parts and are taking part in several bids. We hope to increase our share in India.

What are the global trends in stainless steel right now?

Stainless steel is a very particular market. Ferritic grades are based on chromium, while austenitic grades, which are widely used for cooking, depend on nickel. Nickel is a strategic material used in defence and other sectors. Its high production cost creates challenges. Companies must invest in efficiency and improve yield. In India, large companies are investing heavily and are also focusing on green solutions, which matches the vision seen in western countries.

What are the challenges you are facing in the Indian market?

India is already the second largest steel producer after China. There is still a lot of development ahead. Support and skilled manpower are very important. Digital technology also plays a big role, and India is strong in this area. I believe India has a major opportunity to improve its position globally, especially in terms of steel quality.