Midrex, LISCO Discuss Direct Reduction Plant Expansion
The Cairo meeting focused on maintaining and developing direct reduction plants to raise production capacity under an EPC model.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Manufacturing
LISCO and Midrex Technologies held a meeting in Cairo to discuss strategies for maintaining and developing direct reduction plants. The goal is to increase production capacity through a project executed under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction model.
Why it matters
The discussions are part of LISCO's ongoing efforts to upgrade its facilities and modernize its production infrastructure. The initiative aims to strengthen the company's operational capabilities in direct reduced iron production.
Midrex Technologies is responsible for around 70% of the world's low-CO₂ direct reduced iron production and accounts for nearly 90% of global hot briquetted iron capacity. The meeting did not disclose specific capacity targets, costs, or contract terms for the planned expansion.
The players
Midrex Technologies
Midrex Technologies is a Charlotte, North Carolina-based direct reduction technology company and wholly owned subsidiary of Japan's Kobe Steel, Ltd.
LISCO
LISCO is a Libyan steel company pursuing upgrades to its facilities and production capabilities.
K. C. Woody
K. C. Woody is the chief executive of Midrex Technologies.
Mohamed Abdulmalik Al-Faqih
Mohamed Abdulmalik Al-Faqih is the chairman of LISCO.
The details
LISCO Chairman Mohamed Abdulmalik Al-Faqih and Midrex Chief Executive K. C. Woody attended the Cairo meeting. The project is to be executed under full Midrex supervision, with the potential to involve other entities in supply and construction activities.
Timeline
November 4, 2026: LISCO and Midrex hold the Cairo meeting.
Industry Position
Midrex's direct reduction technology underpins roughly 70% of world low-CO₂ DRI production, so LISCO's plant expansion extends that established process into Libya's steel sector. The project follows the EPC model Midrex uses for direct reduction plant builds.
For steel buyers and industrial customers, the expansion could affect future supply of direct reduced iron used in steelmaking. The source does not describe changes to prices or availability for end customers.
The takeaway
Projects like this show how producers are turning to direct reduction technology to raise output while modernizing older facilities. Watch for announced capacity targets and contract details to judge how large the expansion will be.
Further reading
For more on industrial production, see the Manufacturing section.
