Apr. 16, 2021 - Shinagawa Refractories, the leading global supplier of refractory solutions, announces that SG Shinagawa Refractories India Pvt. Ltd. has commenced commercial production and completed the first delivery of Tap Hole Clay, manufactured in Halol, Gujarat, India.

SG Shinagawa Refractories India is a Joint Venture of Shinagawa Refractories and Grindwell Norton Ltd., a majority-owned subsidiary of Saint-Gobain. Before this venture in India, Shinagawa Refractories and Saint-Gobain had established a technology license based collaboration in Brazil. Local Tap Hole Clay production in Brazil led to higher accessibility to regional customers in the Americas, and the product’s consistent quality and performance have been well received by major steel plants in the region.

Meanwhile, in India, Shinagawa Refractories has successfully growing its exports to India for nearly a decade. Responding to rapidly growing refractory demand in Indian market, the company decided that the time had come to further expand its reach and establish local operations. With the commencement of production at Halol, Gujarat and a team of sales professionals and engineering specialists in place, Shinagawa is now, well and truly, within the reach of Indian customers.

“SG Shinagawa Refractories India marks a significant footprint for our customers and Shinagawa’s global operation,” said Heiki Miki, Division Director of Shinagawa Overseas Business. “Our local facility in India is fully committed to supporting Indian steel industry with the finest quality products and services,” added Miki.