Brazil’s hot rolled coil (HRC) exports and imports both recorded lower volumes in April compared to March, mainly due to reduced shipments to South American markets and lower import arrivals from South Korea.
According to the latest trade data, Brazil exported 22,500 mt of HRC in April, down from 26,800 mt in March. Imports also declined significantly to 38,100 mt, compared to 72,000 mt in the previous month.
The decline in exports was mainly linked to weaker shipments to regional markets. During April, Brazil exported:
- 12,600 mt to the United States
- 9,900 mt to South American countries
- 36 percent lower volumes to South America compared to March
Brazilian HRC exports were mainly supplied by ArcelorMittal, Usiminas and Gerdau.
On the import side, lower arrivals from South Korea weighed on overall import volumes. Brazil imported:
- 21,000 mt from South Korea
- 17,100 mt from China
- 48 percent fewer shipments from South Korea month on month
The reduction in South Korean shipments was the main factor behind the sharp decline in April imports. Despite weaker trade activity during the month, Brazil remains one of the largest steel markets in Latin America, with demand and international trade flows continuing to influence HRC market performance.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group
