Mexico
March 19, 2024
Written by David Schollaert
Sheet and plate prices mostly moved lower this week after little change was noted the week prior. Despite edging down, sentiment is mixed, and many suggest a bottom may be near.
US hot-rolled (HR) coil prices have fallen below $800 per short ton (st) on average for the first time since early mid-to-late October.
The phrase “Fortress North America” seems to resurface anytime US, Canada, and Mexico trade negotiations roll around. The idea of an economic Fortress North America burst onto the scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s in the lead up to NAFTA. In theory...
Six qualified bidders have emerged for the assets of bankrupt Altos Hornos de México (Ahmsa) and its Minosa mining assets.
Following the 17-month high set in June, US steel exports receded 8% in July, according to recently released US Department of Commerce figures. Trade has been historically low for over a year and remains weak compared to 2022-2024 volumes.
Mexico has formally opened an anti-dumping investigation into imports of cut-to-length steel plate from Japan. Mexico’s Ministry of Economy launched the trade case after a complaint by Grupo Acerero (GASA). GASA, a San Luis Potosi-based steel producer, alleges price discrimination and injury to the Mexican industry, according to the announcement in Mexico’s Official Gazette of the Federation. The case targets hot-rolled, uncoated, non-coil carbon steel plate in sheet form, at least 4.75 mm thick and 600 mm wide.
GrafTech International Ltd. plans to permanently close its graphite electrode manufacturing facility in Monterrey, Mexico. The closure will happen in phases, with production expected to end early in the second quarter of 2027.