In a significant step towards securing America's energy future, six prominent US OCTG producers have united under the banner of the US OCTG Producers Alliance (USOPA), based in Washington D.C. Founding members include industry giants such as Tenaris in the US, Vallourec Star LP, Borusan Pipe US, PTC Liberty Tubulars, Welded Tube US and Axis Pipe and Tube.
The formation of USOPA is a critical step in strengthening the nation's energy security by promoting a robust domestic supply chain for oil country tubular goods (OCTG). Luca Zanotti, elected Chairman of USOPA and President of Tenaris in the USA, emphasised the importance of promoting a world-class US OCTG industry. Mr. Zanotti emphasized the need to reduce dependence on foreign producers, which currently hold a significant share of the US market, often with excess capacity that is not in line with the market.
With 19 facilities in nine states and a combined workforce of approximately 7,500 American employees, USOPA represents a significant portion of US OCTG production, estimated at approximately 75%. In addition to supporting domestic production, the alliance aims to create thousands of high-paying jobs in American OCTG and related steel facilities.
As part of its efforts to promote a level playing field, USOPA has appointed veteran Washington trade lawyer Roger Schagrin of Schagrin Associates as its General Counsel. Schagrin emphasised the importance of aligning OCTG imports with market shares that reflect basic steel products, particularly in the context of a broader policy landscape focused on decarbonisation and environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, the U.S. OCTG Producers Alliance stands ready to work closely with the Administration and Congress to advance policies that strengthen U.S. energy independence and national security. By advocating for a healthy, domestic OCTG industry, USOPA aims to lay the foundation for a resilient and sustainable energy future for the United States.