Usiminas invests R$ 1.7 billion in Ipatinga industrial center

Usiminas has launched a R$ 1.7 billion investment project at its Industrial Center in Ipatinga, Minas Gerais. The project focuses on the reconstruction of Battery 4 of Coke Oven 2, which involves demolishing the existing structure and building a new unit equipped with updated technologies.

The project is expected to be completed and operational by 2029. During the construction phase, approximately 800 jobs are expected to be generated. By restoring its own capacity to produce coke and coke oven gas, Usiminas aims to reduce its dependence on third-party suppliers, thereby increasing operational efficiency, predictability, and cost competitiveness.

Usiminas President Marcelo Chara stated that the investment, supported by shareholder Ternium, reinforces a commitment to Brazilian industry. He also called for fairer competition to protect the national steel industry from subsidized foreign imports. This reconstruction is part of a broader modernization package in Ipatinga, which includes repairs to Battery 3, a new grinding and PCI injection plant, and a new gasometer.