Workers at Brazilian flat steel producer Usiminas are on the verge of halting production as they enter a "state of strike" following unsuccessful negotiations regarding salary adjustments and benefits for the 2024-2025 period. After rejecting the company's initial proposal on December 10, 2024, workers resumed talks on January 3 and 6 but failed to reach an agreement. A union director expressed frustration over the lack of a new proposal from the company, which cited challenges due to Chinese steel imports. A crucial meeting is scheduled for January 9, where further developments are anticipated.