Clifford Chance Facilitates Financing for Colombia’s Port Expansion

Global law firm Clifford Chance has played a pivotal role in facilitating the financing for the expansion of the multi-purpose Port of Aguadulce located in Buenaventura, Colombia. The firm provided legal counsel to Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria Colombia (BBVA), The Bank Of Nova Scotia, ING Capital, Banco Santander, and Clifford Capital, as mandated lead arrangers, in connection with the financing for Sociedad Puerto Industrial Aguadulce S.A.

Sociedad Puerto Industrial Aguadulce is backed by PSA International (formerly the Port of Singapore Authority) and International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI). This strategic initiative aims to enhance the port’s capacity and infrastructure to accommodate the growing demands of trade in the region.

Partner Fabricio Longhin highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “Aguadulce is a strategically important port in Buenaventura on Colombia’s Pacific coast with access to the ‘Golden Triangle’ of the Colombian economy. This project financing required the implementation of innovative features to account for a substantial port expansion for an operational asset.”

The collaboration involved a multijurisdictional, multi-practice team, including key members from the firm’s offices in Washington, DC, New York, Madrid, Dusseldorf, and Singapore. In particular, the Madrid-based team, led by partner Jose Guardo (pictured) and associate Enrique Pais, played a crucial role in providing expertise in Banking & Finance to support the financing arrangement. Their contribution underscores Clifford Chance’s dedication to leveraging its global network and capabilities to drive success for clients across diverse markets and industries.