Jan De Nul beats DEME for multi-billion-dollar contract on Argentine waterway
The Belgian dredging company Jan De Nul has won a tender from the Argentine government to dredge and maintain the Paraná River, one of the country's main transport routes. Belgian competitor DEME was also in the running but ultimately lost out, the Argentine Ministry of Economy announced on Thursday.
The two Belgian companies were the final contenders for the contract. While the exact value has not been disclosed, some estimates suggest it could be worth up to 10 billion USD. The formal award will take place after a seven-day period during which objections can be lodged.
The government of president Javier Milei aims to improve navigation and efficiency on the Paraná River by further deepening the waterway. According to the ministry of economy, around 80 per cent of Argentina's exports pass through the river, making it a vital economic artery for the country.
Jan De Nul has extensive experience on the Paraná, having maintained the river for decades in partnership with the Argentine company Servimagnus. Since 2021, maintenance of the waterway has been carried out by the Argentine government.
#FlandersNewsService | Aerial view of the Paraná River in the Buenos Aires region © PHOTO LUIS ROBAYO
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