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The year 2002 was characterised by a slow down
in production, reflecting without doubt the international
economic situation. The industry reported a 3% production
drop by the end of the year. The Grey Iron production was
hit hardest with drop of 5.3%, while the nodular iron production
remained steady thanks to 5.5% increase in centrifugal cast
tube production. Other sectors, including Steel Casters, experienced
a drop between 3 to 5%.
It is worth underlining the importance of the
automotive industry for the Spanish foundries, representing
about 53.3% of the iron production, 12% of the steel production
and 56% of the non-ferrous metals production.
Forecast results for 2003
 First
quarter results in 2003 are similar to those in 2002. However
the ferrous sector, in particular the Grey Iron and Cast Steel
production have dropped 1.5% and 2.6 % respectively. The non
ferrous sector should produce similar results as last year
based on prognostics.
A similar development is foreseen until the
end of this year, which can be considered a success considering
the economic situation in Europe or elsewhere. But generally
there is a great incertitude concerning those estimations
due to the important number of parameters unknown at the current
moment.
 It
is worth mentioning that the Spanish foundry industry has
undergone a radical restructuring during the last few years.
Great efforts have been made to improve quality systems and
modernise installations, as well as implementation of vocational
training programs and environmental protections standards.
As a result, we can confirm that the Spanish
foundries maintain a strong competitive position, as displayed
by the presence of high quality demanding markets such as
the automotive. The level of certifications and conformity
with international standards is very high, which is reflected
by the high export ratio close to 40% of total production.
ATEF servicio de estudios. September 2003.
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