Latin America Metal Processing Sector Report 2025-2026

Latin America is home to some of the world's largest reserves of metallic minerals, including copper, iron ore and zinc. As such, the region has numerous metal processing companies and plays an important role in the global trade of metals such as steel, aluminium, refined copper and zinc. However, economic and political instability, low capital availability and other factors have all resulted in untapped potential for the metal processing industry, with countries exporting large chunks of unprocessed mineral output. In line with this, the region's importance in the global metal markets dwindles when compared to its mineral resources. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), in 2023, Latin America accounted for nearly a fifth of the world's total iron ore mined (19.6%), yet its share of total crude steel output was less than 5% in the same year. Similarly, the region accounted for 38% of the global copper ore output in 2023, whilst its share of refined copper output fell to 11% in the same year.

This report provides a complete and detailed analysis of the "Metals and mining" sector for South America. EMIS Insights presents in-depth business intelligence in a standard format across countries and regions, providing a balanced mix between analysis and data.

What this report allows you to do:

• Understand the key elements at play in the "Metals and mining" sector in South America
• Crystallise the forces both driving and restraining this sector in South America
• Ascertain South America’s position in the global sector
• Build a complete perspective on sector trade, investment and employment
• Understand the competitive landscape and who the major players are
• View M&A activity and major deals
• Gain an understanding of the regulatory environment for the sector in South America.
• Build a clear picture of trends, output and consumption for specific sub-sectors