CLARK FREEPORT — Global courier giant FedEx says it is not abandoning its Asia Pacific hub in China, but confirmed plans to expand into this freeport.
“FedEx is not relocating and has no plans to relocate its Asia Pacific Hub,” FedEx said in a statement after Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez was quoted to have said the courier firm would relocate to Clark.
In a statement yesterday, however, the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) said talks with FedEx on expansion here were still in progress.
“We have been talking to FedEx and as far as we know, this move is not because of any plans to move out of China, but rather, a part of its ongoing expansion throughout the Asia-Pacific region. We are not however at liberty to disclose any details of the ongoing talks at this time,” said BCDA president- CEO Vince Dizon said in the statement.
A report quoted FedEx, however, as saying that “our planned operations in Clark will enable us to better serve our customers in the Philippines and are part of our ongoing expansion throughout the Asia-Pacific region as our business continues to grow.”
FedEx used to operate at Subic Bay Freeport, but ceased operations there in 2009.
“FedEx is committed to the Asia-Pacific region, including our customers and employees in both China and the Philippines, and we continue to consider opportunities and make strategic investments to expand our service, enhance our network and provide greater global connectivity,” the FedEx statement said.
BCDA said “Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez clarified that he was taken out of context and he was only highlighting the fact that the Philippines, being a traditional economic partner of the US, and which has sustained growth of the economy, rise in competitive and innovation rankings, improved infrastructure, and a highly professional, young, and dynamic workforce — has become an even more attractive investment destination for US companies in recent years.”
BCDA noted that “a key economic partner of the US, the Philippines has become a more attractive destination for US companies and investors because of its sustained inclusive growth, positive international credit ratings, and improved infrastructure.”
“FedEx will be a welcome addition to the growing number of locators in Clark, signifying its position as a strong growth driver not just in Central Luzon but in the country as well,” Dizon also said.
