Brazilian foundry association ABIFA forecasts US$1bn in sector exports for 2005, the organization reported during a press conference as against $852mn export in 2004. During January August 2005 the industry registered 30% growth in export revenue and a 16% increase in export volume due to iron and steel foundry production compared to January August 2004.

ABIFA predicts the sector will end 2005 with 3Mt in production and 5% revenue growth over 2004's level of US$4.2bn. Exports have sustained a 10.5% average growth rate over the last 24 years.

Brazil is the world's ninth largest foundry products manufacturer, ABIFA President Mr Luiz Carlos Kock said to local press. "In 2005 we expect to be the seventh biggest producer, leaving countries such as Italy and France behind." He added that 80% of Brazil's production went to domestic markets such as the automobile industry

ABIFA boasts members such as Fundição Tupy, Foseco and Teksid.