The industrial capacity utilization in Argentina rose to 59.8% in March 2026, halting the decline registered in the first two months of this year. This statistical improvement was primarily driven by the energy and basic inputs sectors, recovering some of the ground lost during the summer.

The steel sector solidified its position as one of the engines of the utilization rebound, placing basic metal industries well above the overall average, from 64.3% to 73.3% in March. This progress is attributed to a strong year-on-year increase of 17.1% in crude steel production, according to data from the Argentine Steel Chamber (CAA).

Despite the positive performance of steel and chemical products, Argentina's industrial recovery remains uneven and heterogeneous. While the metals and basic inputs sector shows strength, key sectors such as metalworking and the automotive industry continue to operate below 50% of their installed capacity.