Atlas Steel PNG has broadened its services to meet the needs of the mining sector, eliminating the need for local mines to rely on overseas suppliers for mining support products.
The company, which has been Papua New Guinea’s premier steel manufacturer and distributor for 48 years, is now diversifying its offerings beyond its traditional focus on the industrial sector, building and construction.
Atlas Steel has long been a supplier to the country’s mining sector, and now, in response to increased demand, it is introducing a range of consumables and ground support products designed specifically for both surface and underground mines.
The company aims to streamline the mining supply chain by offering a more efficient, locally managed solution.
Mr David Kembek, Technical Sales Manager of Atlas Steel PNG, told PNG Business News: "For years, Atlas Steel has served the steel and construction industries in Papua New Guinea. However, we are now venturing further into the mining sector, which holds tremendous growth potential.”
“Our focus is on introducing a new range of mining consumables and ground support systems to better support local mining operations."
The company’s expansion is a direct response to the challenges faced by the mining industry, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global supply chains and led to higher shipment costs and longer lead times.
Atlas Steel aims to address these issues by holding stock locally, significantly reducing delivery times.
Kembek said: "We understand the importance of timely supply for mining operations."
"Many mines rely on critical consumables being available when needed. By carrying stock locally, we can ensure faster and more reliable deliveries to meet those needs."
As part of its expansion, Atlas Steel is also working to develop the local supply chain and create new opportunities for local engineers and graduates to gain experience in the mining sector.
"We’re actively engaging with the country’s major mining operations, including established names like Lihir Gold Mine (Newmont PNG) and K92 Mining, which is PNG’s largest underground mine," Kembek added.
"We are also continuing to service OK Tedi, one of our longest-standing customers. Additionally, we are eager to support emerging projects such as the Wafi-Golpu Joint Venture, which we believe will play a key role in the country’s mining future."
Currently, Atlas Steel maintains strong relationships with all major mining companies in PNG, supplying its traditional range of products.
However, with this new initiative, the company is expanding its services to include a broader portfolio of mining-related consumables like shank adaptors, speed rods, drill tubes, button bits, mine mesh, cable bolts and split set friction rock stabilizers.
Kembek emphasized the company's proactive approach. "We are planning visits to key mining sites across the country to discuss both our established product range and the new consumables we are introducing. We are optimistic that these discussions will lead to stronger partnerships with the mining community."
In addition to strengthening relationships with local mines, Atlas Steel is also in talks with Australian suppliers to further expand its range of offerings.
The company is positioning itself as a key player in PNG’s mining supply chain by ensuring that local mines can access high-quality materials, plus an added stock management service to save valuable space and keep stock counts, without the need to look abroad for these services.
"By supplying from our branches in Lae and Port Moresby, we can ensure that mining companies have the materials they need, when they need them.”
