Lafarge reportedly plans to dump 47% of Elementia, its joint venture in Mexico. Elementia is interested in purchasing the shares and is in negotiations with Lafarge. Because Holcim has assets in Mexico, Lafarge wants to avoid competing with itself in Mexico after agreeing to a $40 billion merger with Holcim.
Lafarge's stake in Elementia is reported to be worth up to $500 million. However, due to the limited bargaining power of Lafarge and the fact that Elementia already owns most of the management rights of the joint venture, Lafarge may not be able to sell its shares at such a high price. In addition, Lafarge may have to persuade Elementia to buy its shares at a discount.
However, a recent list of divestitures by Lafarge and Holcim did not include its Mexican assets.
It is reported that Elementia sells cement in Mexico under the name of "Cementos Fortaleza" ", with an annual cement production capacity of 2 million tons, and Elementia's acquisition of Lafarge's equity will consolidate its position in Mexico.
In 2013, the Mexican government approved economic reforms and, as a result, cement demand in Mexico is expected to grow.