EXHIBIT I TO SCHEDULE 13D The undersigned persons (the "Reporting Persons") hereby agree that a joint statement on this Schedule 13D, and any amendments thereto, be filed on their behalf by Vicuna Steel Metallurgy Co. Each of the Reporting Persons is responsible for the completeness and accuracy of the information concerning each of them contained herein, but none of the Reporting Persons is responsible for the completeness or accuracy of the information concerning any other Reporting Person. March 31, 2003 Vicunha Steel S.A. By: /s/ Jacks Rabinovich --------------------------------- Name: Jacks Rabinovich Title: Chief Executive Officer By: /s/ Ricardo Steinbruch --------------------------------- Name: Ricardo Steinbruch Title: Investor Relations Officer Vicunha Acos S.A. By: /s/ Jacks Rabinovich --------------------------------- Name: Jacks Rabinovich Title: Chief Executive Officer By: /s/ Rubens dos Santos --------------------------------- Name: Rubens dos Santos Title: Investors Relations Officer Vicuna Steel Metallurgy Co. By: /s/ Jacks Rabinovich --------------------------------- Name: Jacks Rabinovich Title: Chief Executive Officer By: /s/ Rubens dos Santos --------------------------------- Name: Rubens dos Santos Title: Investors Relations Officer