ArcelorMittal’s facility in Pecém, Ceará, has cleared the initial phase of a strategic project for a new hot-rolled coil production line. This step involves an investment of R$35 million dedicated to engineering and development work. Actual construction and equipment procurement remain pending, contingent upon future board approval and study outcomes.

The full project, which could cost about R$4.5 billion, may create 3,000 construction jobs and expand the regional industrial base. It aims to introduce compact, energy-efficient production technologies to Latin America.

Currently producing steel slabs with an annual capacity of 3 million tonnes, the facility intends to add hot-rolled coils to its output, focusing on higher value-added steel products.