Intertek creates water testing joint venture in Mexico

Assurance provider Intertek has partnered with ABC Analitic, a water test provider, to form an environmental services joint venture in Mexico.

The FTSE 100 company, which will own the majority of the joint venture, will use it become a market leader in assurance, testing, inspection and certification to government environmental projects, regulators and corporations in the country.

Chief executive André Lacroix said the joint venture with will expand the company’s presence in Mexico's fast growing environmental testing market and by joining forces, it will be able to offer its customers an industry-leading portfolio of testing and assurance services.

The company will also be able to take advantage of Mexico's macroeconomic environment, increasing environmental regulation and the country's focus on water quality.

ABC Analitic provides water testing in wastewater, natural and drinking water analysis.

The Mexican population reached 120m in 2015 and has grown by 13% over the past decade, while gross domestic product has increased by 26%.

The company said this means that given the strong growth in population and commercial activities, “the quality and quantity of water available in Mexico is seen as a matter of national importance and therefore the focus of many strategic environmental projects.”

Over 55% of the environmental services market in the country is focused on water utilities and wastewater treatment.