The privatization of Belgrano Cargas y Logística in Argentina begins with an asset auction and will conclude with a concession transfer by 2026. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Argentina has launched the privatization of Belgrano Cargas y Logística, with a two-stage plan set to be completed by July 2026.
Photo: Government of Argentina

First stage of privatizing Belgrano Cargas y Logística

Argentina’s government has launched the privatization of Belgrano Cargas y Logística, which operates under the Trenes Argentinos Cargas (TAC) brand. This initiative is part of a broader reform aimed at making the freight rail sector more competitive and attractive for investment.

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The first stage involves auctioning off the company’s rolling stock, including locomotives and freight wagons.

Proceeds will be deposited into a dedicated state account and later reinvested into railway infrastructure. The Ministry of Economy is overseeing the entire process to ensure transparency and strategic alignment.

Argentina’s national rail network spans about 30,000 kilometers, with 15,770 km currently in operation. Belgrano Cargas y Logística controls 7,700 km of this network, including the Belgrano (1000 mm), San Martín (1676 mm), and Urquiza (1435 mm) lines.

These routes run through 17 provinces and are essential for moving agricultural and industrial products to seaports.

Belgrano Cargas y Logística operations and next reform steps

In 2024, Argentina’s railways transported 21.63 million tons of freight, including 7.4 million tons moved by the TAC network. The fleet includes 164 locomotives—107 built in China between 2016–2017 and 57 diesel engines manufactured in the US from the 1950s to the 1990s. The company also manages around 8,200 freight cars and employs over 4,400 workers.

The second stage of the reform will begin in 2025, following the valuation of key infrastructure assets. The government plans to award a concession license to a private operator to run the rail network. However, the tracks and land will remain state-owned to maintain public control over core infrastructure.

FAQ

What is Belgrano Cargas y Logística?

It is Argentina’s state-owned freight rail operator, operating under the Trenes Argentinos Cargas brand.

When will the second stage of Belgrano Cargas y Logística privatization begin?

The second stage will begin in 2025 after the evaluation of infrastructure facilities is completed.

Can investors participate in Belgrano Cargas y Logística?

Yes, after the asset auction and concession award, investment opportunities will become available through the new private operator.

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