Steel sector better off than 1998 but still does not have means to restructure

A constant growth in sales has been reported since the beginning of the year, however it still is lower than in 1998. The average monthly sales in January amounted to zl. 742 million while in June it was as much zl. 1.072 billion, which is a positive sign for the sector. Among the negative indicators, is the decrease of exports of Polish steel products, which this year is 40% lower than 1998. In order to finalize restructuring of the sector by 2005, the steel industry needs another zl. 10 billion, out of which zl. 3 million will be vital to have this year. As the industry does not have the means, the only solution would be to find strategic investors, which would mean privatization of the steel mills. (Rzeczpospolita, page B2)