Brazilian steelmaker Gerdau resumed operations in southern Brazil, weeks after heavy rains flooded and paralyzed industry in the region.
The company said in early May it was temporarily halting operations at its facilities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul until it could ensure "people's protection and safety." The company did not specify when it resumed operations, but it told Argus it did not have production losses due to the suspension.
At the time, the region was facing flooding rains that killed at least 172 people and forced thousands to abandon their homes.
Gerdau produces steel at its Riograndense and Charqueadas mills. The company did not give further details on produced volumes by states, but it sold 2.7mn metric tonnes (t) of steel in the first quarter, down from 2.98mn t a year earlier.
The Charqueadas mill produces special steel products, while the Riograndense mill produces raw and finished steel products such as rebar and wire rod.
