Maroc - TIMBERBIZ.COM.AU - A La Une - 25/Feb 23:47

Tigercat partners with Grupo Timbo in Paraguay

Tigercat has expanded its dealership network in the Southern Cone of South America, with the addition of Grupo Timbo in Paraguay. Source: Timberbiz Frans Misdorp, Tigercat South American District Manager, began traveling to Paraguay in early 2024 to determine the potential opportunity, focusing on some of the plantation projects being developed east of the Rio Paraguay from Asunción northward towards Concepción. Mr Misdorp was introduced to the company Grupo Timbo. After meeting both the chairman, Rolando, and his son, director Renato Zuccolillo, and Frans extended an invitation to visit Tigercat in Canada. Rolando and Renato made the journey to Canada last June. The connection between the Tigercat team and the Grupo Timbo team was seamless, as both companies stem from similar family-run backgrounds. After a two-day visit, the parties reached consensus on how to move forward together. Grupo Timbo officially became Tigercat’s exclusive dealer during a January 2025 dealer agreement signing ceremony in Asunción. Grupo Timbo originated in Paraguay’s transport industry, specializing in bus and road freight, and later expanding into the construction sector. Rolando gained insight into the forest industry from his father, who shared interesting stories from his early days procuring round logs to feed his sawmill on the outskirts of Asunción. As a result, Rolando has developed a deep understanding of the forest harvesting process and is well aware of the future equipment needs in Paraguay. Today, Grupo Timbo is 36 years old, with eight sales and service outlets and a ninth location currently under construction in Concepción. The Concepción branch location is strategically positioned close to a new pulp mill being constructed by the forestry company Paracel. Initial plantation efforts primarily involved private growers cultivating Eucalyptus camaldulensis. However, with improved silvicultural practices and site preparation, Eucalyptus urophylla clones have been introduced, leading to better growth yields per hectare. Although the region receives adequate rainfall, Paracel has implemented a state-of-the-art early fire detection system that utilizes infrared camera technology to protect its forest assets during dry periods. The mill will begin operating in the first quarter of 2027, and at full capacity, it plans to intake 6,3 million tonnes per annum.