Fokker Aerostructures, American Industries and the Chihuahua government have signed today on the Paris Air show, the agreement for the start of a new Fokker production facility in the city of Chihuahua in Mexico, to be opened before the end of 2011. The facility will produce work packages for aircraft programs of major Fokker Aerostructures customers. Production is expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2011. First products are expected to be delivered in the 1st quarter of 2012.

Fokker's partner in the project is American Industries, a Mexican company that supported leading aerospace industries with the start and the management of production activities in Mexico. Fokker expects to achieve significant extra growth through this new location, in addition to the strong growth expected at its facilities in the Netherlands which will also be extended substantially. Production in Mexico is also a major step in reducing the company's exposure to dollar risk, because the Mexican currency is linked to the dollar.

Fokker has considered establishing a new facility in Mexico for some time, Mexico being one of the emerging economies. Extending its global footprint is an essential element of Fokker's long term strategy. Chihuahua was chosen because of the favourable conditions it offers for international companies in the areas of business development, labour, education & training and infrastructure. It also has an excellent location relative to the company's major customers in the USA. The very good cooperation with the regional government was another positive factor in choosing Mexico and Chihuahua. The presence in the region of other leading aerospace companies means that the important success factors are in place and in line with the needs of the aerospace industry.

"This expansion is an important step in Fokker's global footprint strategy, and will enable our Aerostructures division to achieve its ambitious growth plans, both with our current portfolio and with the expected new contracts, while at the same time further strengthening our competitive position", said Hans Büthker, president of Fokker Aerostructures. "The excellent support we have received from the Chihuahua government and Promexico, and the involvement of our partner in this project "American Industries" provide a sound basis for a successful operation."

"To have Fokker present in Chihuahua is without a doubt a clear sign that the organization recognises the optimal conditions to develop the Aerospace Cluster. Such a solid high tech brand is a valuable reference for the Chihuahua industry and a clear sign that we are doing the things well in terms of economic promotion. We warmly welcome Fokker to integrate in the greatest aerospace cluster of the country" says Lic. Caesar Horacio Duarte Jáquez, Governor of the State of Chihuahua.