IHC Merwede, the global market leader for efficient dredging and mining vessels and equipment, and reliable supplier of custom-built ships and supplies for offshore construction, officially opened its new Singapore office at the PSA Building today.

The Singapore base will be the corporate headquarters for IHC Offshore & Marine’s South East Asia businesses as it further expands its footprint in the region. IHC Merwede already has an IHC Parts & Services office in Jurong, which manages its life-cycle support operations.

The new venture will focus on promoting IHC Merwede’s Offshore & Marine vessels and technology solutions. In addition, it aims to secure building capacity to complement its yards in The Netherlands and add to the considerable marine engineering capability already operating under the company’s umbrella.

Regional CEO Denis Welch says, "IHC Merwede is not just a shipbuilder per se, but also an aggregation of engineering and manufacturing companies, which combines to provide unique and value-added solutions to its customers." The new office – located at the PSA Building, 460 Alexander Road – was the venue for the official opening party attended by HE Mr Johannes W. Jansing, Ambassador for the Kingdom of The Netherlands, as well as business partners and industry leaders.

IHC Merwede’s President Govert Hamers says, "With Denis Welch’s appointment in place and the new office now established, we are ready to accelerate our growth in Asia. Having our South East Asia corporate headquarters in Singapore is a big part of our global strategy.

"We are happy to increase our commitment to Asia. It is a major international maritime oil and gas hub and has the necessary infrastructure in place. As our Asian customers come to benefit from our customised and technological solutions, plans are already in place to expand the company in the region."