Reuters reported that the Bosnian unit of world steel major ArcelorMittal, wants to lay off more than half its 2,600 strong workforce because the plant has the lowest productivity in Europe,
Several hundred ArcelorMittal Zenica workers protested on Thursday over the management plans.
Union leader Mr Zuhdija Kapetanovic said the company wanted to cut 1,400 jobs at the plant
He warned of daily protests and hourly work stoppages unless the plan is revoked. He said "The company is increasing productivity at the cost of the workers and that must stop."
The plant's management did not respond to protesters but its general manager Mr Mukund Kulkarni said this week management had to resort to such measures because the plant had the lowest productivity in Europe. He said "If the plant wants to remain competitive and survive in these tough times then it is crucial to boost productivity."
ArcelorMittal Zenica produced around 600,000 tonnes of steel last year.
