The Grupo Vía Central consortium, led by Sacyr Concessions, has closed a senior loan of up to USD 855 million to finance the construction of the 273 km of the railway that will link the country's capital, Montevideo with Paso de los Toros (Ferrocarril Central project).

The total investment that the project will require amounts to USD 1,070 million.

The loan has the participation of SMBC, Intesa San Paolo, IDB, CAF and CAFAM. In addition, the consortium partners contribute USD 155 million for the financing of the project, and the Uruguayan Administration has made advances for USD 60 million.

Grupo Vía Central is made up of Sacyr (40%), two Uruguayan companies, Saceem (27%) and Berkes (6%), and the French firm NGE (27%).

The project includes the design, construction, financing, rehabilitation and maintenance for 18 years of the railroad that will link Montevideo and Paso de los Toros.

This railway connection is a key asset for the development of the country, as it will link the pulp mill that will be developed by the Finnish firm UPM with the port of Montevideo. Due to its relevance, this infrastructure will be the largest in the history of Uruguay. This project also represents the largest private investment made in the country.