SAO PAULO (S&P Global Ratings) Sept. 20, 2021--S&P Global Ratings said today that Rumo S.A.'s (BB-/Stable/B) signing of a contract to construct and operate a new railroad in the state of Mato Grosso will support the company's long-term growth strategy. The new railroad will connect Cuiabá (the state capital) and Lucas do Rio Verde to the Rondonópolis road-rail terminal. The railroad will also connect with Rumo's Malha Paulista line that runs to ports on the coast. The contract is valid for 45 years, with potential renewal for additional 45 years. Rumo expects to obtain regulatory approval and environmental permits by the end of next year and start building the railroad likely in 2023. The expected capex for the project is between