CHILE - With the production of the first raw board, Arauco officially began operations at its new plywood plant in Nueva Aldea. The project required an investment of approximately USD 190 million and will have a production capacity of 350,000 m3/year.

The plant was rebuilt after a fire that occurred in the area in January 2012, where the Nueva Aldea Industrial Forest Complex was particularly hit and completely destroyed.

This new unit will market its products in key export markets, and expects sales to reach USD 100 million annually.

On the occasion, Cristián Infante, Arauco’s CEO, said "We are extremely proud to reopen this plant and fulfill our commitment made a few days after the fire occurred. This plant is an important source of employment and with its implementation we strive to continue or leadership path in international markets, always with the challenge of growing well." The plant will create a total of 660 jobs of which 350 have already been hired and at their posts.