(Updates to add BlueScope's response in the fourth and fifth paragraphs)
BlueScope Steel (ASX:BSL) is no longer a bidder for Whyalla Steelworks operations in South Australia, multiple media outlets reported on Wednesday.
South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas said that two bidders have been shortlisted for the sale, according to his post on X.
According to media reports, M Resources and India-listed Jindal Steel remain the last remaining bidders for the South Australian business.
A Bluescope spokesperson, in response to' email request for comment, said that its consortium, together with Nippon Steel Corporation, JSW Steel, and POSCO, has been advised by the Administrators that it has not been invited to progress to the next stage of the process.
"The Administrator has confirmed that BlueScope retains its right of last offer under the services agreement[;] however, there remains no obligation on any of the consortium members to make an offer to acquire the Whyalla Steelworks," the spokesperson added.
The company's shares rose 1% in recent Wednesday trade.