THE Ministry of Industry will set up a new laboratory equipped to conduct conformity test activities on imported iron and steel.
In order to perform tests and analysis on domestically produced and imported iron and steel according to established standards, samples of deformed bars (rebar) utilized in the country will be tested. The Ministry of Industry has also discussed with representatives of the Myanmar Iron and Steel Association to draft an iron and steel policy roadmap.
Furthermore, efforts to set three common methods of testing iron and steel materials for local manufacturers and importers are underway. A certified laboratory will be set up in order to testing methods to ensure quality and competitiveness amid the rising domestic consumption and imports.
Technical assistance, ideas and cooperation of the experts from the relevant industries would be welcome in establishing a laboratory. Before the new lab, the Myanmar Iron and Steel Association was trying to conduct an assessment of the existing laboratories. Cement plants are also evaluating quality analysis.
At present, the Myanmar Engineering Council and Myanmar Engineering Societies are also drawing up sets of rules and guidelines that define the technical requirements in the construction project to practice safely and effectively.
Domestic demand for iron and steel is growing, with an estimated consumption of one million tonnes. Myanmar brings in about 800,000 tonnes of iron and steel per year, as only 200,000 tonnes can be produced locally. — ASH/KK
