Peruvian investments in Chilean salmon farms seem likely. (Photo: Stock File/FIS)

Peruvian group interested in two Chilean salmon companies

CHILE
Thursday, July 14, 2011, 02:40 (GMT + 9)

The advisor to the senior management of Tecnológica de Alimentos SA (TASA), Humberto Speziani, confirmed Brescia group's interest in entering the Chilean salmon industry and make investments.

"We are looking closely at two Chilean salmon companies with which we have had no negotiations yet," said the CEO of the major company producing fish meal.

He added that both firms are medium sized and are not listed on the domestic capital market.

TASA's interest comes after the recovery of the Chilean salmon industry, which has overcome the crisis caused by the outbreaks of infectious salmon anemia (ISA), which spread in the country’s farms in 2007.

Currently, Brescia controls the company Cementos Melón in Chile.

"The idea is that part of it can be carried out this year. I'm always optimistic about these things. There should be a light on it," said Speziani, according to the newspaper Estrategia.

The businessperson explained that they have not yet contacted the alleged leaders of the salmon farms because in Perú they are in the process of change in government, and are looking "inward until President Ollanta Humala makes his speech later this month and elects his Cabinet." He also indicated that "these are holiday periods for many managers."

Speziani said that if the acquisition takes place, they will "not necessarily" take total control." In this sense, he considered it is possible that they join as partners in the operation, "as the operational experience belongs to the Chilean company."

"The Chilean salmon farming business is very attractive, and we not only see the current situation, but also its projection, which is positive. The quick sector recovery and the general market reaction were amazing," said the businessperson.

"It is likely that by 2015 the Chilean salmon industry will beat the Norwegian one because the latter can hardly grow, unlike you," he said.

Finally, he pointed out Brescia group is considering the possibility of joining AquaChile, Invertec or Multiexport, with Chilean capital, "which are more likely to targeted."

By Analia Murias
[email protected]
www.seafood.media

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