Argentina privatizes 3,900 kilometers of national highways

Argentina's government has privatized 3,900 kilometers of national highways, awarding them to private concessionaires. This move is a key part of President Javier Milei's strategy to withdraw the state from infrastructure construction and maintenance, promoting private capital investment.

Economy Minister Luis Caputo announced the "Stage III of the Federal Concessions Network," encompassing over 3,900 kilometers across eight strategic sections. These routes are vital for transporting goods and passengers, carrying approximately 80% of national traffic. Caputo stated all 16 awarded sections will be under construction by late September, though specific investment amounts and timelines were not detailed.

The privatization push follows calls from governors of mining and oil-producing provinces for increased infrastructure investment to support their sectors. These governors had previously highlighted how deteriorating routes hinder production and exports. With this latest stage, the government claims to have awarded over 9,000 kilometers of major national routes.