DP World Acquires Chilean Ports

Dubai-based port operator DP World says it will buy a 71.3 percent stake in Chile's Puertos y Logistica SA, taking control of two key port terminals in the South American state.

According to a filing on Nasdaq Dubai, where the state-owned port operator is listed, the group bought the 71.3% stake from Minera Valparaiso and other shareholders associated with Chilean conglomerate, the Matte Group.

The statement quoted DP World Group chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem as saying the deal allows his firm now to serve customers at five key points in South America.

"Under the tender process DP World will offer [US$502mn] in consideration for 100% equity ownership. As of 30 September 2018, Pulogsa had net financial debt of $226m. The acquisition is expected to be earnings accretive in the first full year of consolidation and it will be financed from existing balance sheet resources. The transaction is subject to relevant third party consents and is expected to close in the first half of 2019" said the statement.

Pulogsa operates a long-term concession for Puerto Central (PCE) in San Antonio, in Chile’s Central Region V as well as owning and operating Puerto Lirquen (PLQ) in Chile’s Southern Region VIII.
PCE is a multipurpose terminal located in San Antonio, which is a gateway to the Chilean capital Santiago and to leading industrial, commercial and agricultural businesses. PCE is one of the country's largest container ports (over 1MN TEU capacity) with recent infrastructure investments, making it the most modern terminal in Chile. PCE has the potential for further capacity expansion for both container and non-container operations.

PLQ is a multipurpose terminal incorporating long term maritime concessions with freehold land ownership, which handles containers, break-bulk and dry bulk. The port is strategically positioned to benefit from the well-established pulp and lumber industry in Southern Chile, next to the country’s second largest city and industrial hub Concepción.