Holcim AG has announced the sale of its 83.81% stake in Lafarge Africa to China’s Huaxin Cement for $1 billion. This divestment is part of Holcim's strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on key markets, including North America. The deal is expected to close in 2025.
Holcim AG, the Swiss multinational building materials company, has announced the sale of its 83.81% stake in Lafarge Africa to Huaxin Cement, a Chinese cement producer, for $1 billion. The transaction is part of Holcim's broader strategy to streamline its operations and concentrate on core markets. The deal, which is expected to close in 2025, is subject to regulatory approvals.
Holcim’s decision to divest its Nigerian operations aligns with its global business restructuring plans. The company intends to refocus its resources on high-growth regions, particularly North America, where it anticipates increased demand due to the housing shortage and increasing interest in sustainable building materials. This sale is consistent with Holcim’s ongoing portfolio optimization strategy, which includes shedding non-core assets.
This sale follows Holcim’s previous divestments in Africa, including the sale of its Zambian operations to Huaxin Cement in 2021. The company’s CEO, Jan Jenisch, emphasized that the divestment would help Holcim continue its transformation into a leader in sustainable building solutions. By focusing on growth opportunities and strategic markets, Holcim aims to remain at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the building materials sector.
