The Colombian Chamber of Steel (Camacero) estimates that the steel industry in Colombia will grow between 2% and 3% in 2026, surpassing several Latin American countries. The region is projected to see up to 4% growth. These forecasts draw from 2025 import figures, which indicated a slight increase.
The Colombian Chamber of Steel, known as Camacero, has projected moderate growth for the steel industry in Colombia. The industry group forecasts expansion between 2% and 3% in 2026, while the region could reach up to 4%, exceeding countries like Brazil, Chile, and Ecuador.
Regarding 2025, as of November, total sector imports reached 2.5 million tons, representing 0.8% growth compared to the previous period. Of this figure, 1.6 million tons were flat steels, 20% more than in 2024. Imports of RLF, RLC, plates, and coated products totaled 1.4 million tons.
Camacero notes that 68% of the market was held by the top 20 importers, with a concentration index below 1,000, indicating an atomized market. This, according to the group, promotes competition and lowers prices. However, it warns of risks for the current year, such as market contraction due to the Central Bank's interest rate hike, which could lead to deflation with a negative IPP.
Detailed projections include 2.7% growth for 2025, 2.8% in 2026, and 2.9% in 2027 in Colombia. The 2025 estimate would rank below countries like Argentina, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama, and Paraguay, but above Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Jamaica, and Uruguay.
In import breakdowns, hot-rolled products accounted for 893,097 tons (60% of the total), followed by coated products at 346,004 tons (23%) and cold-rolled at 130,246 tons (9%). Leading importers were Acesco Colombia S.A.S. with 161,127 tons, La Campana Servicios de Acero with 9,982 tons, and Aceros Cortados with 6,958 tons.
Alacero stated that 40% of steel consumed in the region is imported. Camacero warns of excess production and a lack of consumers, which could erode profitability if not addressed.
