Ciparo started trading in European recyclables to China in 1992, making it one of the first trading companies to export paper and plastics to Asia. These raw materials and half-products are purchased in parts of the world where there is an excess of those, mainly Europe and North-America. Subsequently they are sold to the Far East where there is a continuously growing demand for recyclables due to its fast developing economy.
Starting with bulk grades of paper and plastics, we gradually increased our volumes year on year. At the same time we established a solid network throughout China, opening a total of 5 branch offices. In 2002, we opened two offices in Vietnam. Today, with offices in Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi we are able to supply the most important regions of China and Vietnam. We are also represented in India, and supply the European paper industry.
With our business structure and knowledgeable staff, we pride ourselves with our direct approach to business. We have knowledge of all the paper and plastic grades, and today have outlets for all qualities and quantities. Moreover, we are fully trained in logistics and shipping regulations; an essential element when trading recovered paper and plastics to Asia. With these tools in hand, we are able to work fast, and play into the latest developments in the recycling and papermaking business.
Today, Ciparo has 15 fulltime staff working in Europe. We have warehousing in Rotterdam and Antwerp, but also ship from other European main ports like Hamburg, Felixstowe, Barcelona and Piraeus. Baling facilities are at hand in the US and in China. In China and Vietnam, over 70 people are employed, giving us the much needed local knowledge to be successful in business. Our multilingual staff, speaking a range of languages like Dutch, English, German, Polish, Spanish, Cantonese and Vietnamese, are always ready see what Ciparo can do for your organization.
Apart from trading in recyclables, Ciparo has a considerable share in the following companies:
- Australian Recourse Management: Melbourne based trading company in timber.
- Luwi Stones: European based trading company in various stones.
- BioLogical Solutions: Rotterdam based distributer of disposable and biodegradable cutlery.
Finally, Ciparo could not have achieved what it has without the creativity, intelligence and persistence of Louis Hoogendoorn. Louis is the co-founder of Ciparo, who sadly passed away in 2007. He is missed by all who knew him, and continues to inspire us.