Davao food processing eco-zone gets green light
THE National Development Co. approved last week the implementation of the Davao Food Complex (DFC) development, an economic zone for food-based industries, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.
In a statement, DTI confirmed the approval of the complex, on a 20-hectare site in Davao.
“The proposed DFC will include food processing centers, cold storage and warehousing facilities with tourism attractions that will showcase the processed agricultural products of the region,” said DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez in a statement.
Mr. Lopez said that the agri-aquaculture segment will be represented by an ornamental fish hatchery, while the complex will also house a technology and business incubation center, as well as water filtration and bottling facility for potable water-related enterprises. Also planned are restaurants, a marketplace, and parks.
“Doing this can reduce post-harvest losses and spoilage by as much as 20%, valued at P240 million per year. It will also generate employment of about 3,300 employees based on 220 per hectare labor force density in industrial estates,” he added.
The project could be implemented via a joint venture between NDC and a private partner, DTI said.
DTI also cited other benefits which may include the increase in the value of productive land in the area, savings on dollar reserves due to the reduced need to import fruit and vegetables; and an increase in tax revenue.
The DFC will take up most of a 25-hectare site owned by the NDC. The remaining land is being converted to the Davao Agri-Trading Center (DATC).
DTI said that a market survey shows demand for the DFC on the part of producers in Davao for food processing and storage.—