By Robert Kozak
LIMA, Peru--Peruvian Finance Minister Luis Miguel Castilla said
Thursday that the government, through state-owned oil company
Petroleos del Peru SA (PETROBC1.VL), or Petroperu, hasn't made any
offer to purchase the assets of Repsol SA (REP.MC, REPYY) in
Peru.
Speaking at a press conference, Mr. Castilla said the government
is carrying a cost-benefit analysis of the assets, which include a
refinery, a number of gasoline service stations and a cooking fuel
unit.
"An evaluation is being done, but it hasn't been concluded. It
will take into account costs and benefits. There has been no
decision taken yet," Mr. Castilla said at the World Economic Forum
on Latin America being held here.
"There will be rigorous analysis done, like there is for all
investments," he added.
Some private-sector observers have complained about the
possibility of increased government involvement in the hydrocarbons
sector. The finance minister said, however, that Peru's
market-friendly economic policies remain in place and that the
economy continues to rely heavily on private-sector investment.
Currently, Petroperu owns a number of aging refineries and a
pipeline and leases its name for a chain of service stations.
Prime Minister Juan Jimenez earlier said the government was
interested in a minority stake in the La Pampilla refinery in order
to ensure fuel supplies.
Repsol has been selling some of its assets, and earlier this
year sold off a minority holding in Peru LNG, which produces
liquefied natural gas.
Write to Robert Kozak at robert.kozak@dowjones.com
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