Votorantim Siderurgia (Steel) is one of the most traditional electric-steel-mill steel producers in Brazil. By acquiring the Colombian steelwork Acerías Paz del Río in 2007, VS has entered to the steel integrated producers groups, wherein the production process begins by transforming iron ore into pig iron to then produce the metal.

Acerías Paz del Río has geological research permits for iron ore, coal, and limestone mining – which are used in pig iron production. The Unit operates three iron-ore mines – El Uvo, Pírgua, and Ubalá – thirteen coal mines – among which there La Chapa and La 45 are the most important – and two limestone mines.

Most of Acerías Paz del Río’s explored deposits are located in the department of Boyacá, about 50 km away from the steel plant.

In face of its constant expansion vision, VS plans to raise the production of metallurgical coal through the semi-mechanization of the mines La 45, La Chapa, and Comaita. Part of the production will be for self supply and the balance will be sold to third parties. As for iron ore, there are plans to expand the Ubalá mine.

Acerías Paz del Río pioneered the development of geological research work in Colombia and carried out a number of studies towards utilization of the minerals used in the steel production process.