Acciaierie d’Italia has initiated legal proceedings seeking €7 billion in damages from ArcelorMittal, alleging that the global steel major’s management practices during its period of control caused severe financial harm to the Italian steelmaker.
The claim has been filed by the court-appointed administrators currently overseeing Acciaierie d’Italia, which operates the former ILVA steel complex. According to the filing, ArcelorMittal is accused of pursuing financial and operational decisions that weakened the company’s balance sheet, reduced investment in the plant, and diverted resources in a manner that undermined long-term sustainability.
The administrators argue that these actions contributed to mounting losses, declining production efficiency, and structural imbalances at the facility, one of Europe’s largest integrated steel plants. The damages sought reflect findings from an extensive review of the company’s financial and operational records following the transition to state-led administration.
The legal action follows the Italian government’s decision to assume control of the company amid ongoing operational and financial challenges. Authorities are simultaneously working to identify a new strategic investor to stabilise operations, safeguard employment, and secure the plant’s future role within Italy’s industrial base.
ArcelorMittal has yet to issue a formal response to the claim. The case is expected to be closely watched by the global steel industry, given its potential implications for corporate accountability, state intervention in strategic assets, and future restructuring of Europe’s steel sector.
