Bloomberg is reporting that representatives from Holcim and Lafarge are in talks with the European Union, in a bid to iron out any concerns over their merger prior to filing for approval.
Though details of the talks are not available, the aim is said to be to address EU issues early on and avoid an in-depth investigation that could considerably slow the process.
Europe was always considered the sticking point for the merger, which will create the world’s biggest cement manufacturer. Of the divestments announced in July to smooth the way for the deal, the majority were in Europe, including Austria, France, Germany and Romania.
Official notification of the merger to the EU has not yet been given, and looks to be pending the results of these talks.
Edited from source by Katherine Guenioui
Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/europe-cis/17092014/bloomberg-reports-lafarge-holcim-in-talks-with-eu-502/
