Metaphil explores other export markets

Aboitiz construction arm, Metaphil, is now working on expanding its export market as the Philippines is slowly becoming one of the potential contenders to supply the growing demand for industrial construction materials abroad.

At present, the company, which maintains production plant in Tipolo, Mandaue City is strengthening its market penetration in the Middle East, as it is working on US$5 million worth of orders for materials needed for petrochemical plants from Kuwait and Oman.

Although, the company had been exporting these kinds of materials to oil refineries in Qatar and some mining plants in Oman, Metaphil president and chief operating officer (COO) Napoleon Pe Jr. said, the company is making efforts to penetrate other markets, like some countries in the Middle East and Australia.

"Hoping to get some projects in other countries soon," Pe said banking on the growing opportunities for outsourcing from industrial mining companies and refineries abroad of their construction, and processing materials requirements.

Recently, Metaphil delivered five fully assembled mining thickener devices worth 5 million Australian dollars (worth P189 million) to New Caledonia, in North America.

If the company will be able to expand its clientele abroad, there is a possibility of adding more workforce from its over 3,000 employees today, said Metaphil president and chief executive officer (CEO) Roberto E. Aboitiz.

Although Metaphil is not the only company that specializes in Electro-Mechanical and Civil projects including steel fabrication works on a design, installation or turnkey basis, and offering outsourcing services to companies abroad, Aboitiz said Metaphil will have to do its best to be a serious player in the world's construction material outsourcing business.

The company also makes evaporators and vacuum pans for the sugar industry.

"We are now in the world procurement list," Aboitiz said adding that with this, the Philippines is on the map as a world-class builder for industrial plants and equipment.

Metaphil started to venture into export market some six years ago. About 40 percent of the total business of Metaphil, is exports, said Aboitiz.

Now, the company is on its active mood to further expand its international penetration, taking advantage of the growing demand for construction material outsourcing services from other countries.

Metaphil has already established presence in other countries like Singapore, Australia, the Caribbean, South America, the Middle East and the United States.

Pe said the company is geared to further expand the penetration of these markets, as well as exploring other countries and continents.

The Philippines is competing closely with Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, in terms of supplying construction and mining material requirements for other countries.