NLMK Group (LSE:NLMK), a leading global steel producer, attained second place in the 2012 annual ranking of the World’s 35 Most Competitive Steelmakers. The ranking, prepared by the world’s leading steel information service World Steel Dynamics, was based on 23 factors including capacity expansion, proximity to high-growth markets and customers, high value-added product mix, profitability, and technological innovation.

NLMK has cemented its place in the WSD rating, retaining the place it held in mid-2012.

Konstantin Arshakuni, NLMK Acting Director of Strategy and Business Development, said: “NLMK’s place in the World Steel Dynamics ranking proves we’ve made the right strategic choices to ensure sustainable growth. Commitment to this strategy will support our high financial performance in the long-term, and drive further development. We aim to consolidate our leadership through enhancing the efficiency of our production, sales, and services around the globe.”

Since 2007, NLMK has consistently been listed in the top six of the World’s Most Competitive Steelmakers, as ranked by World Steel Dynamics. Korea’s POSCO topped the list in 2012.