On September 17, in Singapore, IFC Chief Lars Thunell presented IFC's Client Leadership Award to Aceitera General Deheza, a leading agribusiness group in Argentina. Launched in 2004, IFC’s annual award recognizes innovation, operational excellence, and commitment to sustainable development, all values for which IFC stands. AGD is a leader among over 1,300 IFC client companies in the private sector of emerging market economies.
An IFC client since 1986, AGD is Argentina’s largest family-owned exporter of oilseeds and related products; in its 2004 fiscal year it had revenues exceeding $1.1 billion and more than 2,250 employees. It is one of the most profitable companies in its sector and has remained successful despite a challenging investment climate and severe economic crisis.
The award recognizes, among other things, AGD’s major contributions to its community. Primarily because of AGD, a large network of farmers and intermediaries in rural areas continues to grow and prosper. In the town of General Deheza, where it has its main operations, AGD has helped build new housing and supported community organizations, local schools, and health care. With partners including IFC, AGD has also built key local infrastructure, not only reducing its transportation and handling costs, but benefiting the entire supply chain.
 IFC’s loans and equity investments have helped AGD grow and increase its global competitiveness. These investments included a $100 million long-term financing package in 2001-2002, when Argentine companies could not access normal trade financing lines.
IFC is proud to recognize AGD’s success, which shows the difference a single company can make, not just in building a business but in supporting a community, a sector, even a country—and in opening markets.
To learn more about the award, read the press release in English or Spanish ...>> |
For further information contact:
Adriana Gomez
Communications Officer
Tel: (202) 458-5204
