Heineken has started construction of a $100 million brewery in Mozambique as it aims to increase its product portfolio in the country.
Located in the province of Maputo, the first bottle of beer is expected to come off the production line in the first half of 2019.
Heineken started its activities in Mozambique last year with the creation of a sales and marketing office, importing beers such as Heineken, Amstel and Sagres into the country.
The company said the facility represents a ‘major step’ in the country as it expects to create 200 jobs following the investment.
Boudewijn Haarsma, Heineken International managing director of East and West Africa, said: “We are delighted to enter Mozambique, where we see promising long-term economic perspectives. The project is progressing well thanks to the support of the Mozambican government and its commitment to bring investments into the country.
“Investing in a new market like Mozambique supports Heineken’s ambition to expand its footprint and be the number one or a strong number two in all markets in which it operates. With our extensive experience and existing business in Africa, we also aim to be a partner for growth today in Mozambique as we already are throughout the continent.
“I am convinced our presence will contribute to the economic and social development that is already under way in Mozambique.”
Aligned with the Heineken ambition of sourcing 60% of its agricultural raw materials in Africa by 2020, the company will explore the possibility of locally sourcing the raw materials it will need to produce its beers.
One of the objectives of this project will be to improve crop yields as well as the capabilities and living standards of Mozambican farmers, contributing to the economic development of the country.
Heineken Mozambique general manager Nuno Simes added: “With Heineken’s passion for quality, our new brewery will deliver high quality beers to Mozambique according to the international standards of the Heineken Company. We look forward to continue to provide enjoyment to Mozambican consumers with our brands.”
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