Chile: FNE approves Atlantia-Abertis merger, creating national motorway giant

Italian construction company Atlantia S.p.A. has consolidated its position as the largest motorway operator in Chile, after the National Economic Prosecutor (FNE) approved the former’s merger with its Spanish counterpart, Abertis Infraestructuras S.A.

The resolution ensures that, due to current regulations, the transfer of shares will not substantially reduce competition in the market. In order to ensure the quality of customer service, both companies agreed to keep intact the number of offices available so that customers can access electronic toll collection (TAG) equipment, or pay fines. In addition, since the two companies currently charge the maximum value allowed by their contracts, it was not considered that an increase rates for drivers would be likely.

With the purchase of shares, Atlantia consolidates its position as the largest player in the local market, going from controlling 50.1% of the roads in the capital to now holding 78% of the country’s urban roadways. The company, which operates the Nororiente, Vespucio Sur and Costanera Norte motorways, as well as the access to Santiago airport and the central coastal road, will take over full control of all Abertis’ operations.

Full Content: Economia y Negocios

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