Argentina outlines privatization plan for state companies

The Argentine government has established a roadmap to privatize or grant concessions for at least five state-owned companies before the first half of 2027. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Economy under Luis Caputo and the Agency for the Transformation of Public Enterprises, aims to reduce the state's economic footprint.

A primary focus is AySA, the public water utility. The government plans to tender 90% of the company's shares on September 15. While there is no fixed base price, any offer must exceed the valuation established by the Banco de Inversión y Comercio Exterior (BICE). Potential interested parties include Mauricio Filiberti, potentially in partnership with the construction firm Rowing, and Grupo Roggio.

Additionally, the government is pursuing a concession for the Belgrano Cargas railway. The tender involves the concession of tracks and associated lands for 50 years, requiring an investment of approximately US$1 billion. The process includes provisions for the Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI) and contains clauses to prevent foreign companies controlled by other states from participating.