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UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill
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The UPM Fray Bentos pulp mill, located on the banks of the Uruguay River near the city of Fray Bentos, is one of the largest industrial investments in Uruguay's history. Commissioned in 2007 and originally built by the Finnish company Botnia, later acquired by UPM-Kymmene, the mill has a production capacity of over 1.3 million tonnes of bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp (BEKP) per year. The plant was the subject of a long-standing diplomatic dispute between Argentina and Uruguay, known as the 'Pulp Mill Conflict', due to concerns over its environmental impact on the shared river. The case was even brought before the International Court of Justice, which ruled that Uruguay had breached its procedural obligations but did not order the mill's closure. The mill uses Best Available Techniques (BAT) to minimize its environmental footprint and generates more renewable energy from biomass than it consumes, feeding the surplus into the national grid. It is a cornerstone of Uruguay's forestry sector and a major exporter.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Playa Ubici · Bioparque M'Bopicuá
- Nearby: Dolores (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 24 | 22 | 18 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 18 | 21 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 134 | 139 | 137 | 122 | 83 | 56 | 54 | 76 | 88 | 140 | 108 | 132 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
This pulp mill is one of the largest in the world, situated on the Uruguay River. It drives the forestry and export economy of Uruguay and is a landmark of modern industrial scale in a scenic natural setting.
Visiting
The mill is an active industrial facility and generally not open for public tours. Visitors can observe the massive plant and its chimneys from the outside, typically from the riverbank or nearby roads.
Where to view it
Recommended viewpoints include the International Bridge linking Fray Bentos to Argentina, which gives a sweeping panorama. Also, the riverside promenade in town features a direct sightline to the mill's waterfront installations.
Local products
The mill produces bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp, which is not sold directly on site. Travelers can see forest products in the region, such as eucalyptus plantations and timber trucks on the roads.
Active season
The mill operates year-round, but the peak shipping season on the Uruguay River typically runs from spring to autumn when water levels allow large cargo ships. During this period, massive barges loading pulp are most frequently seen.
Nearby
Combine a visit with the city of Fray Bentos, which provides a scenic riverfront promenade and local cuisine. The nearby city of Paysandú is also worth exploring for industrial history and river activities.
Geography
Facts
- Began operations in November 2007.
- Annual production capacity: over 1.3 million tonnes of pulp.
- The initial investment was approximately US$1.2 billion.
- Was the subject of an International Court of Justice case between Argentina and Uruguay.
- Generates a surplus of approximately 160 MW of energy from biomass.
- Originally built by Botnia, it was acquired by UPM in 2009.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does this plant produce?
The plant produces pulp from eucalyptus wood.
Can one visit the plant?
Visits are only possible by appointment and for professional groups.
What is the role of the plant?
It is a central pillar of the regional economy.
How does the plant affect the region?
It creates numerous jobs and promotes infrastructure.
When is it best to visit?
As a purely industrial site, not relevant for tourists.
UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill: where is it located?
UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill is located in Uruguay.
UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill: what is there to see?
Highlights include Playa Ubici, Bioparque M'Bopicuá.
UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill: why is it worth visiting?
The UPM Fray Bentos pulp mill, located on the banks of the Uruguay River near the city of Fray Bentos, is one of the largest industrial investments in Uruguay's history.
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