Argentina’s crude steel production reached 345,800 mt in July, 18.2 percent less than in June, according to the country’s steel association Acero Argentino.
Under the same comparative basis, the production of HRC declined by 8.2 percent to 180,100 mt, while the production of CRC declined by 8.4 percent to 105,800 mt, and the production of long products declined by 23.8 percent to 165,700 mt.
According to Acero Argentino, the sharp decline in production reflects the workers union (UOM) strike, which has impacted production activities. Additionally, the sector was already operating with minimum stocks, due to the shortage of foreign currency to acquire raw materials not produced in the country.
In relation to the main steel demanding sectors in July, Acero Argentino mentioned that civil construction remains showing signs of reduced activities, the automotive industry declined in July from the previous month, although increasing by 11.9 percent on yearly basis, agriculture machinery remains in low level of activities due to the a persistent dry season, while the energy sector and domestic appliances are showing good performance, despite uncertainties regarding perspectives for the rest of the year.