Outokumpu is expanding its operations in the Middle East by opening a sales company in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The decision supports the Group's strategy to strengthen its presence outside western European markets and to improve the ability to serve end-user and project customers globally in an optimal way.

The Middle East is one of the fastest growing markets in the world with high potential in investments in industries that require a multitude of stainless steel products. The sales company will be the contact point for the entire range of Outokumpu products and services, while it is especially focused on serving the oil & gas, desalination, petrochemical, energy, and building & construction industries.

Mr Patrik Lundström, Regional General Manager in Outokumpu's Middle East sales company in Dubai comments:

"The new sales company provides us a good platform for future growth in the area. We are now well positioned to serve the Middle East region and present the full potential of stainless steel for customers' benefit. We believe that Outokumpu's special grades and high quality is appreciated in the demanding applications in different industries."

Outokumpu products are already widely used in different projects in the Middle East, especially in desalination as well as in oil and gas and petrochemical industries. The company has also built a major presence in the stainless tubular products markets in the Middle East, by establishing a joint venture company with Armetal in Saudi Arabia. The company, named Outokumpu Armetal Stainless Pipe Co., Ltd. and based in Riyadh, produces and markets welded pipes and tubes as well as sheet products.