Brazil’s industrial group Votorantim’s holding’s cement production arm, Votorantim Cimentos, is seeking to expand operations in Europe in 2005, as part of its plans to conquer economically stable markets.  The expansion is in line with the recently signed letter of intent with Mexican cement maker Cementos Mexicanos (Cemex) for the purchase of two cement plants in the USA for US$400m. According to analysts, Votorantim Cimentos will be the engine for growth and expansion of its owner, the Brazilian industrial group Votorantim.