Coca-Cola invests $120m in Mozambican beverage plant

Coca-Cola has invested $120 million in the construction of a new production plant in the Mozambican capital, Maputo.

The plant will be capable of producing 50 million crates of Coca-Cola products every year, rising to 70 million crates eventually before peaking at 150 million crates a year.

By that time, it could provide as many as 700 jobs for the local economy, and will significantly boost the soft drinks producer’s bottling capacity in the East African country.

The inauguration of the factory was attended by Mozambique’s president, Filipe Nyusi.

Nyusi was quoted as saying: “Investment occurs where there is a favourable economic environment. This plant is testament to the contribution of the private sector to the development of Mozambique. The government will continue to promote industrialisation to create jobs and maximise the value chain.”

The move follows the announcement that Coca-Cola would acquire an initial 40% stake in Nigerian juice, water and value-added dairy producer Chia, with plans to increase its stake to 100% – further testament to the US-based company’s commitment to African markets.