Apparent steel use reaches 57 million tonnes in January/October 2013, 1% higher than the same period of 2012, while finished steel production grew 1% to reach 47 million tonnes.

Brazil registered the higher finished steel consumption, with a level of 22.4 million tonnes (39% of regional consumption), displaying 5% growth vs January/October 2012. On the other hand, Mexico showed a marked drop of 9% vs. same period 2012, nonetheless, it is the second country with the highest volume of finished Steel consumption in 2013, reaching 15.5 million tonnes.

Between January and November, Latin America produced 52.2 million tons of finished steel, 1% more than same period of 2012. The main finished steel manufacturer was Brazil that accounted for 24.2 million tonnes and represented 46% of the total Latin American production. It was followed by Mexico with 14.6 million tonnes (28% share). Peru increased its production 20%, while Chile and Colombia displayed drops of 18% and 6% respectively, comparing to the same period of 2012. The production drop in Chile can be partially explained after the closure of a Flat Steel Line at CAP�s Huachipato Plant during the current year.

In November 2013, finished steel regional production reached 4.9 million tonnes, 5% more than November 2012.

During January/November 2013, crude steel production in Latin America was 60.6 million tonnes, similar to January/November 2012. Brazil continues to be the largest regional producer with 31.5 million tonnes, representing 52% of the regional share, even though its output decreased 1% comparing to same period of 2012.