Group 241

Manufacture of basic iron and steel and of ferro-alloys

This division covers the manufacture of steel and ferro-alloys, from raw materials (iron ore, scrap metal) to intermediate products such as ingots, blooms, or billets. It forms the basis of the supply chain for construction, automotive, and heavy machinery industries.

Included Activities & Applicability

  • Production of pig iron and steel in primary forms (blooms
  • ingots) Production of ferro-alloys (ferromanganese
  • ferrosilicon
  • etc.) Production of semi-finished steel products Recovery and processing of ferrous scrap for steelmaking Production of tubes
  • pipes
  • and profiles from steel (in integrated steelworks) Operation of electric furnaces and converters for steelmaking

Excluded Activities & Restrictions

  • Manufacture of finished castings (foundry work) Manufacture of metal structures (structural metal products) Production of iron and steel in non-ferrous forms (aluminium
  • copper
  • etc.) Retail trade of steel products Separate recycling activities of ferrous metals (waste collection)

Detailed Analysis & Commercial Insights

The steel industry represents a pillar of the Romanian economy

and the activities included in CAEN class 241 – 'Manufacture of basic iron and steel and of ferro-alloys' – form the foundation of the steel production chain. This category includes essential processes such as the manufacture of pig iron, steel in primary forms (ingots, blooms, billets), and ferro-alloys – special alloys used to improve steel properties. In Romania, the steel sector underwent a profound transformation after 1990, moving from large state-owned combines to privatized, technologically modernized structures, yet facing challenges related to energy costs and international competition. Entrepreneurs operating in this niche must manage complex raw material flows, comply with strict environmental regulations, and continuously invest in energy efficiency. The production of ferro-alloys, although a niche, is vital for the global metallurgical industry, and Romania still holds significant potential due to existing resources and expertise. In the macroeconomic context, steel demand is directly correlated with the evolution of the construction and infrastructure sectors, making this division an indicator of economic health. However, pressures related to decarbonization and the transition to a green economy require major investments in low-emission technologies, representing both a challenge and an opportunity for entrepreneurs in this field.