MEXICO (News release) -- Arauco says it will acquire Masisa's wood panel mills in Mexico, which involves two industrial complexes located in Durango and Zitácuaro. The operation considers an investment of $160 million, and positions Arauco as the world's second producer of wood panels, with an annual 10 million cubic metres.

Arauco's Senior Vice-President Commercial & Corporate Affairs Charles Kimber said: "We are very happy with this new purchase, which is set within our internationalization plan, aiming to position Arauco as a global company and market leader. With this acquisition, we will be extending our presence in the North American panel market, where we see very favorable signs of a rising trend regarding these types of products for the furniture and home industry".