Argentina's crude steel output up in 2006

Argentina's Steel Industry Chamber (CIS) has disclosed that the country's crude steel production rose 2.7 percent year on year to 5.53 million metric tons in 2006. Hot rolled steel output rose four percent year on year to 5.29 million metric tons in 2006. On the other hand, cold rolled steel output fell from 1.44 million mt to 1.41 million mt during the period in question. CIS said that the results are based on steady demand in sectors such as construction, automobiles and appliances along with investments to meet growing domestic demand. The production levels are expected to stand high in 2007 with sustained domestic and international demand.