[NYTr] Cuba's Metals Industry Replaces Imports with Local Production

[All the News That Doesn't Fit]

Agencia Cubana de Noticias (ACN)
http://ainch.ain.cu/mailman/listinfo/ingles


Cuba's Metals Industry Replaces Imports with Local Production

Ciego de Avila, Cuba, Jan 3 (acn) The local branch of the Cuban Metal 
and Heavy Machinery Industry in this central-eastern province 
contributed to a saving of 16,000 convertible pesos in 2007 the
manufacture of elements for wooden containers used to transport
foodstuffs to all Cuban territories.

Fernando Fernandez, director of the metal structures plant in this 
province told the Cuban News Agency that the production of elements 
such as container brackets is based on the use of steel waste stemming 
from the production of roof beams for homes under construction or 
being refurbished throughout the country.

As an example, the executive explained that Cuba would have to pay 50
cents (half a US dollar) for every bracket bought on the world market,
while their production on the island only costs 33 cents.  In 2007 the
Ciego de Avila plant supplied more than 1,500 homes with metal tiles.

The plant also boosts the Cuban national housing program by 
contributing roof beams. More than 1,794 such construction elements
have already benefited 14,000 Cuban homes. The factory also plans
to supply gas and air pipes for energy generation facilities, as well as
pipes for drinking water.