Leading animal proteins producer BRF has advanced its date for an expansion project following success it has achieved since it opened a plant in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (Kizad) a year ago. 

Kizad is the industrial, trade and logistics hub of Khalifa Port, the flagship of Abu Dhabi Ports – the master developer, operator and manager of ports and industrial zones in the emirate.

The expansion was announced by Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture Katia Abreu in the presence of the Brazilian Ambassador to the UAE, Paulo Cesar Meira de Vasconcellos, and other dignitaries from the UAE and region. BRF announced its expansion plans on the occasion of the first anniversary of its factory in Kizad. 

BRF will increase its annual production capacity at the Kizad plant from 72,000 tonnes to 100,000 tonnes by the end of 2016. This expansion was originally planned to be completed in 2020. However due to the success of the factory operation, the expansion plan was brought forward to the end of 2016.

Currently producing chicken, beef burgers, and franks, the range emerging from the expansion will feature additional product lines to meet growing demand for marinated meats and franks.

“Kizad is home to the largest food plant of its kind in the Middle East, and the fact that BRF is planning to expand its production capacity even further is yet another testament to the dynamic platform we provide – from integrated solutions, to a conducive business environment and competitive business edge” said Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports.

“We are very happy that our offerings have facilitated BRF’s business growth and that Kizad has been part of their success story” he added. 

Pedro Faria, global CEO of BRF, said: “The factory in Kizad is one of our big success stories. This plant is a benchmark in terms of integrating the global production chain and a way for us to make the UAE an important export hub for the region.”

Patricio Rohner, ‎general director, BRF Middle East and Africa, said: “Increasing our local production capacity represents an additional step towards more flexibility and an increased ability to adapt our products to the demand of the region. With a team of 17 nationalities, this plant is also a reflection of the multicultural aspect of our company in the region.”

The additional production capacity aims to cater both to increased demand within current markets and to potentially new markets in North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.