Industry donates 1,000 tons of steel to rebuild Chocó

Material totals one thousand tons and is part of an initiative coordinated with the government

On August 21, 2026, the Colombian Chamber of Steel Producers of ANDI and five affiliated companies formalized the donation of 100% of the steel estimated for the reconstruction of the department of Chocó. The measure comes after an earthquake hit the region and deeply affected local infrastructure.

Support for the affected department

Local authorities, such as the Governor's Office, reported that the destroyed infrastructure compromises the daily lives of families. The damage affected housing, workspaces, schools, health posts, and communication routes. In response, national producers placed their installed capacity at the service of the emergency.

Details of the material donation

The contribution amounts to approximately 1,000 tons of material. The action is a concrete result of the Materials Bank, an initiative coordinated by the National Association of Businessmen of Colombia in coordination with the Ministry of Housing, City and Territory to channel resources from the private sector.

Statements from sector representatives

Daniel Rey Suárez, executive director of the Chamber of Steel Producers, highlighted that the steel industry and more than 50,000 families in the production chain stand in solidarity with the most vulnerable region affected. ANDI President Bruce Mac Master emphasized the operational sufficiency of local plants to meet the requirements.

Quality and required technical standards

Mac Master stated that it will be guaranteed that all donated steel is certified, earthquake-resistant, and of the highest quality. The response will follow the technical standards necessary for the reconstruction of a seismically active zone, moving past the debris-clearing phase.

Next steps with the government

The national government, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, and ANDI are evaluating the roadmap and the operational conditions of the Materials Bank. Specific measures are expected to be detailed in the coming weeks by the competent authorities.

With information from El Colombiano.