In March this year, Brazilian pig iron export volumes surged by 77 percent year on year to 329,613 mt, according to the official data. China was the key destination in the period in question accounting for a 48.13 percent share of the total exports, while the share of the US was almost 37 percent. Out of the total volume shipped abroad, the majority or 231,625 mt originated from southeastern producers based in Minas Gerais state, SteelOrbis has learned.
China has become the temporary leader in pig iron import purchases in March and early April as the Chinese steel market has been gradually resuming its activities and the demand for raw materials in the falling market has been high. In terms of pig iron exports, Brazil is expected to see high figures in April also as the trade to China has been rather lively.