Albania has taken a historic step toward sustainable industrial development and European integration with the official signing of a new investment contract between Kurum International Albania and Danieli Officine Meccaniche S.p.A., one of the world’s leading steel engineering and technology companies. The agreement paves the way for the construction of a brand-new steel production plant in the Metallurgical Industrial Zone of Elbasan, marking a milestone not only for the city but for the entire country.
The signing ceremony took place in Tirana, in the presence of representatives from central and local institutions, strategic partners, and invited guests, underlining the national importance of this €150 million investment. This project positions Albania at the forefront of green steel production in Europe, strengthening its role in the regional and European industrial landscape.
A Strategic Partnership for Albania’s Industrial Future
The new steel plant will be built using Danieli’s MIDA Steel Concept, an innovative and highly efficient technology that is being implemented for the first time in Europe. Danieli is globally recognized for its cutting-edge solutions in the steel industry, and the selection of MIDA technology highlights Kurum’s commitment to modernization, sustainability, and long-term value creation.
According to Mr. Arif Shkalla, Chief Financial Officer of Kurum International, the signing of this contract represents a defining moment for the company and for Albania:
“This day is extremely important for us as we have signed a strategic partnership and a major contract for the construction of a completely new steel production plant in Elbasan, with an investment value of €150 million. For the first time in Europe, the MIDA concept is being introduced, based on green steel production with zero carbon emissions. This project is not just an industrial investment; it is a clear commitment to sustainable development, technological modernization, and long-term value.”
This statement reflects a broader vision in which Albania becomes a competitive and responsible industrial player within a future European Union framework.
Europe’s First MIDA Steel Plant: A Green Breakthrough
With the realization of this project, Albania will officially host the first MIDA Steel plant in Europe, directly positioning itself in the European green steel market. The MIDA technology offers:
- High energy efficiency
- Significant reduction of environmental impact
- Minimal carbon emissions (near zero)
- Advanced production standards aligned with EU decarbonization policies
These features make the new Elbasan plant fully compliant with European environmental regulations and climate goals, reinforcing Albania’s credibility as a destination for sustainable and forward-looking investments.
Danieli: A Vote of Confidence in Albania
Representing the Danieli Group, Mr. Federico Rocchetti emphasized the uniqueness of this project and its broader regional impact:
“The plant selected by Kurum will be implemented for the first time in Europe. This new concept in construction steel production significantly reduces energy consumption and minimizes carbon emissions, ensuring perfect environmental parameters for green steel certification. It will guarantee sustainable economic growth for the Elbasan region and help revitalize the Albanian industrial sector.”
Danieli’s involvement sends a strong signal of confidence to international investors, showing that Albania is ready to host advanced industrial technologies at European standards.
Elbasan Strengthens Its Role as an Industrial Hub
The Mayor of Elbasan, Mr. Gledian Llatja, highlighted the importance of cooperation between local government and industry:
“As a municipality, we are signing climate contracts, and Kurum, together with other businesses in the industrial zone, has been among the first we started discussions with since 2021. They showed a positive approach toward changing technology and embracing sustainable solutions.”
This collaboration reinforces Elbasan’s historical role as Albania’s industrial heart while transforming it into a modern, environmentally responsible production center.
Economic Impact and European Perspective
The total investment of approximately €150 million will enable an annual production capacity of nearly one million tons of construction steel and other steel products. The project timeline is estimated at 24 months, after which the new plant will begin operations.
Once operational, the factory is expected to:
- Revive exports of Albanian steel in the region
- Target European markets
- Create new, skilled employment opportunities
- Increase value-added industrial production
- Strengthen Albania’s domestic industrial supply chain
This investment aligns closely with Albania’s journey toward European Union membership, supporting EU goals for green transition, industrial decarbonization, and sustainable economic growth.
A Long-Term Commitment to Sustainable Development
Beyond its economic benefits, the Kurum–Danieli project represents a long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and technological progress. By introducing green steel production in Albania, the project sets a new benchmark for industrial investments in the Western Balkans.
As highlighted in the official press release, this initiative enhances Albania’s attractiveness for advanced, environmentally responsible investments, while firmly positioning Elbasan as a strategic industrial center for the future.