The global recession has not missed Mexico, which is seeing many large commercial projects being postponed or cancelled. However, large industrial and public works projects are going forward as the government fights back by stepping up public-works spending. The result has been a mixed impact on prices of construction materials in Mexico.
“Steel prices have declined dramatically in the last three weeks,” says Javier Salas, manager of International Operations for Aceros Corey of Guadalajara, one of the largest fabricator/erectors in Mexico. “The price of rolled wide-flange has dropped 25%, although plate has held firm in pesos since there is not enough production capacity to keep up with industrial demand.”