Furukawa Electric LatAm, a company of the Furukawa Electric Group, has opened a new manufacturing facility in Mexico focused on the production of solutions for the communications market. Located in Mexicali, the new plant will cover 6000 sq m with two operating units — one for the production of fiber optic cables and cordages and the other for connecting and assembling optical equipment, cordages and accessories. The first phase of operations, which represents an investment of $4.5 million, will concentrate on producing fiber optic cables and cordages for optical fiber access. During its first year, the new Furukawa Electric plant is expected to generate 150 direct and 30 indirect jobs. “With this new unit, Furukawa Electric Group plans to consolidate its leadership role in the manufacture and sale of optical products and solutions for telecommunication networks infrastructure,” said Foad Shaikhzadeh, president of Furukawa Electric LatAm and senior corporate vice-president of Furukawa Electric Group. “The new Mexicali plant offers both geographic and logistical advantages that support our goal of supplying the American market. In addition, with its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the location offers excellent exportation capabilities to other continents. The facility also offers ready access to technical laboratories and a qualified workforce.”