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Mexico’s Modelo, a division of AB InBev, announced it is partnering with Millfoods to construct “the largest, most advanced corn processing plant for brewing grits” in Mexico. The result of a $300 million investment, the new plant in Salamanca, Guanajuato, will create 1,000 jobs and benefit 20,000 corn producers in Mexico’s Bajío region when fully operational. Construction is expected to be completed in 2024. According to Modelo, the plant will be Mexico’s most technologically advanced corn processor for brewing grits. Its dry production cycle minimises the use of water, promoting a transition towards a more sustainable and innovative agribusiness. Corn grits are used in the brewing process to balance the liquid profile, giving the beer a smoother flavour and making it “more palatable to Mexican consumers”. Mexican Secretary of Economy, Raquel Buenrostro, highlighted that the investment reflects the confidence of Mexican and foreign investors in the country. “This announcement contributes to the good business environment. Investment in Mexico is at its all-time highs and is generating decent jobs that are the key to eliminating poverty and inequality," she said. Raúl Escalante, VP of legal and corporate affairs at Grupo Modelo, commented: “At Grupo Modelo, we have an unwavering commitment to Mexico. With this investment, we renew our purpose of supporting Mexican producers who grow the grains with which we make our iconic beers to continue promoting the growth of the country's agribusiness." Modelo stressed it will support local corn production over imports, which is also a top government priority. President of Millfoods, Pilar Gutierrez, added: “We are excited to invest in this project which will improve food security and the economic and social development of Mexico. We are committed to positioning our processes as benchmarks in the industry, working towards carbon neutral production, and minimising the use of water resources in our operations."