Mexican steel output expected to fall in 2006

Mexico's National Chamber for the Steel and Iron Industry, Canacero, expects Mexico's liquid steel output to fall 0.5 percent year on year to 16.1 million metric tons in 2006. Canacero CEO Mr. Octavio Rangel said that national consumption will reach 25.1 million metric tons in 2006. Mexico's liquid steel output is expected to amount to 16.8 million metric tons in 2007. National consumption is likely to be 26.7 million metric tons next year.