VIVAnews - PT United Tractors Tbk (UNTR) estimated that there will be a decrease in the production of heavy equipment in 2009 due to the dropping demand.
"But we are still optimistic that there will stiil be growth by at least 15 percent in heavy equipment," said Director of United Tractors, Edhie Sarwono, after the signing of an agreement signing with PT Bank Mandiri Tbk. at the Mandiri Plaza on Wednesday, March 4.
He said, given the weakening market, the production of heavy equipment will not be as high as 2008 with 4,500 units. "But we are expecting that [the production] will be no less than 2007," Sarwono said.
Despite the low demand, Sarwono added that the mining sector still plays a major role in supporting the company's income.
In addition to concession, the mining company (PT Turaga), which has been acquired by the company, will likely contribute to the production by the second semester of 2009. "The production will meet the target," Sarwono said.
He acknowledged that the minimum growth of 15 percent was a contribution from mining supplementary equipment.
Moreover, he also said the improving prices of agricultural commodities have also contributed to the company's growth. "We are still optimistic with what we are up to," he said.
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Translated by: Ariyantri E. Tarman
