Manila Water Company (MWC) confirmed it engaged in a Japanese association to acquire an Australian wastewater treatment and desalination firm for $A225 million.

In a statement released to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) yesterday, MWC said the company has 12.7 per cent involvement in the consortium of MWC, Mitsubishi Corporation, the Innovation Network Corporation of Japan and JGC Corporation.

All parties concerned have accepted to acquire United Utilities programmable logic controller (PLC) wholly-owned subsidiary United Utilities Australia Limited, including its “Australian-related bodies corporate.”

According to MWC, the UUA constitute of companies incorporated that operates in Australia and operate 35 water treatment plants, 22 wastewater treatment plants, nine reuse schemes, and four destination plants in various parts in the State.

“Given its proven track record, the Company will contribute significantly to the expertise and experience of the existing UUA Group across the provision of operation and maintenance and asset management services,” MWC said in the statement.

MCW added that a participation in the consortium is a strategic move to boost the reputation in the international sector as a premier water and wastewater services provider.

“This transaction will improve the company’s competitiveness and visibility in the region as it focuses to expand operations in emerging countries with significant water scarcity problems,” said MWC.