Decarbonization is a term that has become fashionable in several industries, as more and more companies set dates to achieve carbon neutrality. In other words, the amount of CO2 they generate to produce their products or offer their services should be 'zero'. The steel sector is not exempt.

For every ton of steel produced in Latin America, 1.6 tons of CO2 are generated, below the world average of 1.9 tons of carbon, and even further below the average of China, the largest manufacturer, which is above 2.2 million tons.

Alejandro Wagner, general director of the Latin American Steel Association (Alacero) foresees that the production of low-carbon steel stands out as a "historic opportunity" for Mexico. But in order to take advantage of it, an "intelligent policy" is needed, capable of dialoguing with the private sector, especially due to the challenges faced by the steel industry in terms of reducing emissions.

The steel industry located in Mexico generates between 1.2 and 1.3 tons of CO2.

Latin America peaked in 2021, when it reached 75 million tons, an annual increase of 26%. Of the total, Mexico contributed close to 25 million tons, or one third.

Alacero estimates that apparent steel consumption in Latin America will increase 1.9% this year and 2.4% next year. In the particular case of Mexico, demand will increase 2% and 3%, respectively.

"Connecting the environmental issue with nearshoring, two trends that will converge in the next 20 to 30 years, we have a golden, historic opportunity to have a much more preponderant role as a steel supplier," Wagner concludes.