In 2024, Nuevo León established itself as the main steel producer in Mexico, representing 19.8% of national production. This position underscores the fundamental role of the state in the Mexican steel industry, which is key in the debate on foreign trade and industrial defense, as any impact directly affects its economy and employment. Despite its leadership, the state faces challenges, such as the tariffs imposed by the United States that have hindered its exports.
The National Chamber of Iron and Steel Industry (CANACERO) has demanded that the federal government implement urgent measures. Víctor Cairo, president of CANACERO, requested the application of Article 29 of national security to restrict the importation of steel at dumping prices, without violating the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Cairo warned about unfair competition generated by the importation of between 4 and 5 million tons of steel with artificially low prices annually, mainly from subsidized state economies.
Additionally, Cairo denounced the triangulation of Chinese steel through countries such as Malaysia, making it difficult to trace its origin and apply sanctions. The Mexican steel sector also faces the 25% tariff imposed by the United States on steel from the country. CANACERO highlighted that the United States has a steel trade surplus with Mexico of more than 1.2 million tons and expressed concern about unfair competition and the trade difficulties they face.
The industry requested the review of temporary importation programs like IMMEX and PROSEC, arguing that some groups use them to evade controls and facilitate the entry of cheap steel. Despite the willingness shown by the government of Claudia Sheinbaum to address the situation, the industry believes that the actions implemented so far are insufficient. In Cairo's words, "The damage to the industry is real and deep." The urgency for decisive responses is based on the viability of a strategic sector for Mexico.
