US-based agricultural and food company Cargill is considering investment in poultry production in the Philippines.
The company is still studying the investment structure and the business model, location, and supply chain in the Philippines.
The investment will help bolster the company's portfolio and complement its animal nutrition business. Currently, Cargill operates animal feed facilities in Bulacan, Pangasinan and Misamis Oriental.
The company began operation of its Philippine facility with the export of coconut products for its vegetable oil business in the US, reported bworldonline.com.
Cargill has a coconut crushing and processing plant in General Santos City. The firm produces copra meal for domestic and export markets. In addition, it has a carageenan production facility in Canlubang, Laguna.
It is looking at the feasibility of investing in the Philippines as the company believes the Asian country is a safe bet given the global economic instability.
Cargill believes that due to improved infrastructure and a balanced regulatory structure, the Philippines is ideal for investment.
Cargill chairman for Asia Pacific region Alan Willits was quoted by bworldonline.com as saying: "It's about creating the infrastructure. We see countries with great potential, but have inability to move it from areas of production to areas of demand."
Cargill Asia-Pacific vice president of corporate affairs Bruce Blakeman was quoted by bworldonline.com as saying: "It's also about regulatory harmonization. If a Filipino farmer grows food here, and they meet the Filipino standard, then that standard would be accepted in Indonesia or Thailand."
Cargill has been operating in Philippines since 1947, reported Interaksyon.
Image: Cargill plans to invest in poultry business in Philippines. Courtesy of koko-tewan/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
