Due to its seismic vulnerability, Chile has adopted the highest global standards for steel products used in local civil construction, as reported by the Chilean Steel Institute (ICHA). The country’s building structures must be capable of withstanding significant seismic events like the 8.8 magnitude earthquake in 2010, the 8.4 magnitude earthquake in 2015, and the 7.6 magnitude earthquake in 2016.
Juan Carlos Gutierrez, executive director of ICHA, pointed out the trade imbalance created by high import tariffs imposed by the United States, which will force thousands of tons of steel products to be redirected to other markets. He stressed that the steel used in the US doesn’t always meet the strict standards required in Chile, making it necessary to ensure that imported steel complies with Chile's technical specifications.
Manuel Riquelme, director of Chilean steel producer Aceros Aza, emphasized the critical importance of steel quality, noting, "each earthquake reminds us that there is no margin for mistakes in steel quality."
With the closure of Siderúrgica Huachipato in 2024, Chile now imports approximately 60 percent of its steel consumption.
Vietnam Steel by Hoa Sen Group
