Italy-based Buzzi Group will increase its stake in Brazil’s Cimento National (NCPAR) from 50 to 100%, buying 50% shares from Grupo Ricardo Brennand (BCPAR). Cimento Nacional operates five cement plants (photo: Fábrica Matozinhos in MG) and two grinding units, with a production capacity of about 7.2 Mta. The execution of the sale agreement, following the exercise of the put option, is subject to approval by the Brazilian antitrust authority (CADE). It is believed that the transfer of the stake will likely take place by the end of the current fiscal year. Buzzi can finance the acquisition using existing liquidity.