On March 1, 2025, Swiss building materials company Holcim announced the acquisition of Tensolite, an Argentine concrete manufacturer.
This marks Holcim’s second acquisition in Argentina within less than a year, underscoring its continued strategic interest in the Latin American market.
Established in 1979, Tensolite is a leading manufacturer specializing in precast and prestressed concrete construction systems, with net sales of $22 million in 2023. The company operates factories and distribution networks in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, producing a diverse range of products, including beams, roof tiles, and customized large-scale civil engineering products such as bridge beams, precast stands, and pavements. This acquisition will significantly broaden Holcim’s product portfolio and geographic coverage in Latin America.
This move not only strengthens Holcim’s market position in Latin America but also creates new opportunities for Chinese enterprises. As Holcim continues to expand in the region, Chinese suppliers of building materials and construction equipment may discover opportunities in supply chain integration and technological cooperation. Moreover, Holcim’s strategic expansion could encourage Chinese companies to reassess their investment strategies in Latin America, exploring potential partnerships with Holcim and other local enterprises to jointly promote regional infrastructure development and economic growth. The Latin American construction market is expected to grow from approximately $675.99 billion in 2024 to $842.52 billion by 2029, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5%. This growth trajectory presents substantial opportunities for Chinese investment and collaboration within the region. Furthermore, ongoing structural adjustments across Latin America are providing additional avenues for Chinese enterprises to enter and expand their operations.