Matrade supports green initiative in Phl

MANILA, Philippines - The embassy of Malaysia Trade Office (Matrade) is helping promote green practices and product innovation in the Philippines.

Through the help of Matrade and the endorsement of by the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water of Malaysia, Maribumi Starchtech Sdn Bhd has obtained an environment technology verification (ETV) certificate from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for its starch based bag called Zero Plastic.

Maribumi Starchtech has been operating a manufacturing plant in Malaysia since 2009 and is now planning to open a sales office in the Philippines.

“We are very happy obtaining the DOST ETV for Zero Plastic which is an important milestone for the Philippines market. Zero Plastic is now ready for the Philippines market with the signing of partnership with Premier,” M.R. Sivagiri, group managing director of the Maribumi Group said.

Zero Plastic products are made of either tapioca or corn starch combined with other organic ingredients. Other Maribumi products include merchandise, garbage bags and other packaging materials.

“We are confident that our product would be well accepted in Philippines especially to the LGUs that have banned the use of plastic. The LGUs have given green a chance by calling the ban. Zero Plastic will be the answer for that call. ” Siva said.

Maribumi Starchtech, through its subsidiary Zero Plastic Sdn. Bhd., has signed a distribution agreement with Premiere Distribution Network Inc. in the Philippines to handle key segments in the country.

The partnership will also work towards a local production of bags in the Philippines as soon as the sales volume increases.