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SKF Closes Tortuguitas Plant, Cuts 145 Jobs as Production Moves Abroad

Industry groups say the move reflects eroding competitiveness under a surge of imported auto parts.

Overview

  • The Swedish bearing maker confirmed an immediate halt to manufacturing in Tortuguitas and said it will keep a sales and service presence in Argentina.
  • Production will be reassigned across the group’s network, with supplies for the local market sourced primarily from Brazil, according to company statements.
  • Buenos Aires province labor officials intervened to secure legally required severance and are seeking improved payouts as talks continue with the UOM.
  • Workers report months of downsizing through voluntary retirements and shift cuts before the abrupt notification of the shutdown.
  • AFAC reports an autoparts trade deficit of USD 6.085 billion through August and warns that rising imports, especially from China, are squeezing local manufacturers.