Washington, DC - Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that the $25 billion merger of cement manufacturers Holcim Ltd. and Lafarge S.A. would likely harm competition in 12 markets for portland cement, and two markets for slag cement. The merger will create the world’s largest cement manufacturer.

Under the order, first announced in May 2015, the two companies are required to divest cement plants, quarries, terminals and other assets in 12 states – Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Wisconsin – and several locations in Canada.

The Commission vote approving the final order was 4-1, with Commissioner Joshua D. Wright voting no. (FTC File No. 141 0129; the staff contact is James Southworth, Bureau of Competition, 202-326-2822)