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Our Bureau

Kochi , April 4

GERMAN automajor BMW is considering Kochi for setting up its first plant in the country. A team from the company has conducted a site inspection and held discussions with the State Government recently.

The State Government has offered a 25-acre land at Kalamassery near here for the plant.

"May be in the next two months or so, they will get back to us," said Mr John Mathai, Principal Secretary, Industries Department. BMW is looking for level land near the city, Mr Mathai told Business Line.

In the first phase, BMW is planning to set up an assembling unit in India. Subsequently, it plans to undertake full-fledged manufacturing. A test track facility is also envisaged.

BMW officials met the Chief Minister, Mr A.K. Antony, the Opposition leader, Mr V.S. Achutanandan, the Industries Minister, Mr P.K. Kunhalikutty, and top government officials to discuss the proposal.

Along with Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka are also vying for the BMW plant.

Kerala, desperately seeking investments, is hopeful that the advantage of Kochi port, and absence of other automobile manufacturers in the State would give it an edge over other States.

More Stories on : New Projects | Cars | Kerala

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