Benxi Coal and Iron Company

The Benxi Coal and Iron Company was established in 1905 in Benxi, Liaoning province, China, with joint Chinese and Japanese capital. It began iron smelting in 1911 and became increasingly dominated by Japanese interests. The company was significant for its production of low-phosphorus and sulfur iron, crucial for the munitions industry, and special steels for the Japanese navy. In 1942, the Benxi mine experienced a major disaster, killing hundreds of miners. After Soviet occupation and dismantling, the plant was restored and expanded with Soviet technical assistance in the 1950s. Benxi's iron production is integrated with the Anshan complex, and the city also produces cement, chemicals, and nonferrous alloys, though it faces significant air pollution due to its heavy industrial base.1