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Try the Free AI Search EngineSouth America Steel Market Thrives: Positive Trends and Strategic Insights for Buyers
Brazil’s steel sector is experiencing a significant upward trend, with notable growth driven by external market conditions and domestic demand, as evidenced by the article Viewpoint: Brazil seeks gas growth and price cuts. This growth aligns with recent satellite-observed data showing increased activity levels at major steel plants, despite some fluctuations.
Activity levels among South American steel plants show consistent performance with an average mean of 34.0% activity in September, with Usiminas maintaining a steady 53.0%. Notable increases were observed in mid-2025, with CSN Volta Redonda increasing activity from 37.0% in July to a peak of 45.0% in October, although it subsequently fell to 40.0%. These fluctuations may reflect local challenges in aligning production with rising natural gas availability, as suggested by the news article.
The CSN Volta Redonda steel plant, located in Rio de Janeiro, has recorded fluctuating activity, peaking at 45.0% and demonstrating resilience with its integrated manufacturing process leveraging its hydroelectric power sources. Despite this positive note, the plant’s ultimate potential will depend on continuing gas supply growth as emphasized in the recent Viewpoint: Brazil seeks gas growth and price cuts article.
Gerdau Açominas Ouro Branco, situated in Minas Gerais, has shown a consistent upward trend, with a stable rise to 45.0%. Its integrated production utilizing both BOF and coking processes demonstrates a strong capacity to meet domestic demand, which has been bolstered by evolving market dynamics.
Usiminas Ipatinga, also located in Minas Gerais, has consistently maintained high production, holding steady at 53.0%. This stable activity suggests robust operational integrity, providing a secure supply for ongoing infrastructure projects.
Given the positive outlook established by the news articles and satellite data, potential supply disruptions remain minimal. However, the recent activity dips, particularly the overall decline of mean activity to 18.0% in late October, warrant close monitoring as they may indicate localized issues.
For steel buyers and market analysts, it is recommended to consider securing contracts with Gerdau Açominas Ouro Branco and Usiminas Ipatinga, given their consistent performance. Strategic procurement initiatives should also emphasize flexibility in response to the fluctuating activity levels at CSN Volta Redonda, where recent trends underscore the need for adaptability to market conditions shaped by gas availability and pricing pressures.