With Aso, Lafarge is 'going Japanese'

摘要

JAPAN In a move which will be scrutinised in cement-company boardrooms around the world, Lafarge has become the first multi-national to make a move into the Japanese cement market. Aso Cement Co., a medium-sized Japanese cement maker, has agreed to a 'capital tie-up' with Lafarge S.A. of France, the world's largest cement maker. The new company will be jointly set up as early as August 2001. Lafarge is looking to increase sales of cement and construction materials in Japan and Asia through the tie-up, which is expected to be approved at a shareholders' meeting in June. "In order to survive in the cement business where country borders are coming down, it is important to tie up with a strong partner," said Yutaka Aso, president of Aso Cement, at a press conference held in Fukuoka.