Brazil's largest hot-dip galvanizing facility begins operations in January 2026, marking a transformative milestone for South America's steel industry. The plant addresses historical import dependency ranging 30-40% for premium grades, particularly automotive specifications. The facility's estimated 500,000+ metric ton capacity targets automotive body panels & construction applications, offering domestic manufacturers quality-competitive alternatives regarding international suppliers. The investment positions Brazil as a regional manufacturing hub, potentially enabling exports to neighboring South American markets whilst strengthening domestic supply-chain resilience & industrial competitiveness.