NATIONAL POLICY FOR REPLACING THE EXPORT OF IRON ORE WITH STEEL PRODUCTS

Abstract

This article analyzed the strategic feasibility of replacing iron ore exports (raw commodity) with steel products (high value-added steel) in Brazil. Currently, the country is established as the world's second-largest ore producer, yet it occupies only the ninth position in global steel production (World Steel Association, 2024). This disparity results in a loss of added value and economic vulnerability to international price fluctuations, led by Chinese demand. Through qualitative, quantitative and documentary research, the study evaluates the competitive advantages of high-purity hematite reserves in the Iron Quadrangle and Carajás. The results demonstrate that the verticalization of the production chain, supported by a consolidated logistics infrastructure, is the fundamental path to Brazilian industrial sovereignty in the 21st century. The discussion highlights that such a change requires a long-term State project, facing challenges such as high implementation costs and the need for energy security. It concludes that the promotion of "green steelmaking", based on the use of Green Hydrogen and biochar, positions the country as a leader in the new global climate order, transforming raw mineral potential into sustainable development and strategic insertion into global value chains.