A Dubai company has stuck a $60 million deal to produce and distribute a range of PepsiCo drinks in Afghanistan.
The Alokozay Group of Companies, a consumer goods distribution and marketing company, already has a presence in the country.
It will manufacture and distribute a range of PepsiCo brands including Pepsi, Aquafina, Sting and 7-UP from a bottling plant in Kabul.
The venture is expected to create 800 jobs.
The new plant is due to come into operation in March 2012.
"The beverage industry in Afghanistan has grown tremendously and industry estimates point to more than 30 per cent growth year on year. We are delighted to take the PepsiCo franchise into Kabul as this will enable us to service the growing requirement for beverages in the country, with one of the most internationally renowned brands" said Mr. Jalil Alokozay, CEO of Alokozay Beverages Company.
Saad Abdul-Latif, CEO of PepsiCo Asia, Middle East and Africa, added: "We look forward to a long-term, successful and mutually beneficial partnership between PepsiCo and the Alokozay Group of Companies, which are known across the world for their uncompromising blend of quality and value.
"We are confident that this partnership will allow us to offer consumers in Afghanistan diverse and appealing world class beverages."
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