Venezuelan state-run steelmaker Complejo Siderurgico Nacional (CSN) expects to increase its capacity in 2017 to produce some 410,000 mt of steel, the company said this week.
The steelmaker, which ran in 2016 at 15 percent its capacity, targets a 410,000 mt/year production goal this year, out of which 370,000 mt comprise of rebar, sections, and other products.
CSN said its Barquisimeto mill resumed production in January 10, 2017. The Casima and Guayana mills should also commence operations by January 21, 2017.
One of the main challenges CSN faces is the supply of feedstock to run its mills. The company estimates about 60-70 percent of its feedstock is imported.
Additionally, CSN should also provide 10 and 12mm-wide rebar to support the country’s housing program Gran Misión Vivienda
Venezuela (GMVV).
In 2016, the company supplied 6,553 mt of rebar to the initiative.
However, the company expects to provide at least 25 percent of its production to the GMVV housing program, which could reach as much as 102,500 mt of rebar, if the company reaches its 410,000 mt/year production target.