Rio, January 29, 2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - An historical record was set last year by Brazilian raw steel production, 31.1 million tons, 5.2% more than in 2002, while the production of laminated steel amounted to 21 million tons, 10.7% more than in 2002. The earnings of national steelmakers totaled R$ 34.7 billion, 31.4% more than in the previous exercise.

These results were announced yesterday (28), in this capital, by the president of the Brazilian Steel Institute (IBS), José Armando de Figueiredo Campos. Domestic sales accounted for 15.4 million tons, 2.6% less than in 2002, although sheet steel production grew 4.3%, attaining 9.5 million tons. (DAS)