Air Liquide Secures $3.3 Billion Deal to Acquire DIG Airgas

French industrial gases company Air Liquide announced on Friday that it has finalized a binding agreement to acquire South Korea’s DIG Airgas from the Macquarie Asia-Pacific Infrastructure Fund 2. The transaction is valued at approximately €2.85 billion (around $3.30 billion), marking a significant expansion for Air Liquide in the Asian market.

The acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2026, pending necessary approvals from Korean regulatory authorities. This move aligns with Air Liquide’s strategy to enhance its global footprint and strengthen its position in the industrial gases sector.

Air Liquide, based in Paris, has been a key player in the industrial gases industry, providing oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen to various sectors, including healthcare and manufacturing. With this acquisition, the company aims to leverage DIG Airgas’s established operations in South Korea to boost its market share and service offerings in the region.

In a statement, Air Liquide emphasized that this acquisition will not only enhance its operational capabilities but also facilitate innovation in sustainable solutions within the industrial gas sector. The company has been focusing on expanding its presence in Asia, which is seen as a rapidly growing market for industrial gases.

DIG Airgas, which specializes in the production and distribution of various industrial gases, has been a significant entity in South Korea’s market. The acquisition will likely enhance Air Liquide’s ability to meet the increasing demand for gases in industries such as electronics, energy, and healthcare.

As the deal progresses through the approval process, both companies are optimistic about the strategic benefits it will bring. Air Liquide’s commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns well with DIG Airgas’s operational practices, suggesting a smooth integration post-acquisition.

This deal underscores the ongoing consolidation trend in the industrial gases market, where larger companies seek to expand their capabilities and geographic reach. As industries around the world continue to evolve, the demand for high-quality industrial gases remains robust, making this acquisition a timely and strategic move for Air Liquide.