Latin American output stable in H1 2013

Alacero – the Latin American Steel Association, reports that in July 2013, finished steel production in the regional was 4.6Mt, 4% down on July 2012. The largest falls in output were in Argentina (-30%), Colombia (-21%), and Mexico (-7%).

During the first seven months of 2013, the region produced 32.4Mt of finished steel, 1% less than same period of 2012. the largest producer was Brazil at 15.3Mt which had a 47% share of regional output. Mexico follows with 8.9Mt and 27% share. Colombia and Chile showed drops in production of 30% and 19% respectively, comparing to the same period 2012.

Crude steel production in the first seven-months 2013 was 37.6Mt 3% less than the same period 2012. Brazil accounted for 19.9Mt, making it the largest producer but this figure was a decreased 2% compared to January-July 2012.

In July 2013, crude steel production in the region reached 5.5Mt, in line with July 2012.

Trade Balance

During January-June 2013, finished steel regional trade showed a 5.6Mt deficit, slightly less than the 5.9Mt in the same period 2012.

In the first half 2013 the only countries not to show a net trade deficit were Argentina, Brazil and the Dominican Republic. All others registered a negative steel trade balance. The largest deficit was in Mexico (-1.5Mt). Other countries with significant deficits were Colombia (-875kt), Peru (-750kt) and Chile (-740kt).