Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

ZC E & L Corporation is a leading Filipino manufacturer and exporter of canned sardines and seafood products based in Zamboanga City, Philippines. With a strong reputation for quality, sustainability, and global market reach, the company has positioned itself as a trusted name in the fisheries and food processing sector under its flagship brand Grand Kim Sardines.

Core Business

Established as a vertically integrated company, ZC E & L Corporation controls the entire supply chain—from its own fishing fleet to processing, canning, and international export. Its operations are centered on delivering safe, affordable, and delicious sardine products for both domestic and global markets.

Product and Service Offerings

• Canned Sardines:

  • Grand Kim Sardines: Available in tomato sauce, chili, oil, and curry variants
  • Chum Sardines: Economical brand with wide market distribution
  • Morjon Sardines: Premium brand targeted at niche markets
  • Golden Town Sardines: Known for specialty flavors like Spanish Style and Super Hot

• Frozen & Dried Seafood:

  • Assorted seafood catch from company-owned fleets, offered in bulk and retail packaging

All sardines are packed using modern retort technology and are shelf-stable for extended periods, meeting international standards for canned goods.

Specialization and USP

ZC E & L stands out due to:

• Fleet-to-Can Control: Owning its fishing vessels ensures freshness and traceability
• Export-Grade Compliance: Products meet EU, Middle Eastern, and Asian standards
• Brand Strength: Grand Kim and Chum are household names in southern Philippines and Filipino export markets
• Flavored Product Range: Offers one of the most diverse sardine flavor portfolios in the Philippines

Financials and Market Presence

Though privately held, trade data and industry sources suggest:

• Estimated annual revenue between PHP 500 million to PHP 800 million
• Production capacity exceeding 50,000 cases per month
• Export destinations include Middle East, Papua New Guinea, Micronesia, and Malaysia
• Recognized as a major player in Mindanao’s canned sardine cluster

Shipment Data

• ZC E & L ships monthly container loads (20–40 ft) to international importers
• Common HS codes used include 160413 (prepared/preserved sardines)
• Shipment tracking reveals consistent export volumes under “Grand Kim” and “Chum” brands

Target Markets

The company serves:

• Local Filipino consumers via supermarkets and sari-sari stores
• International distributors catering to Asian and Middle Eastern markets
• OFW communities abroad through ethnic grocery channels
• Institutional clients and bulk food service buyers

Their tiered brand strategy allows them to cater to both economy and premium segments.

Capabilities

• State-of-the-art sardine cannery in Zamboanga City
• Own fishing fleet ensuring round-the-clock supply
• Packaging innovation and private label services
• Cold storage and logistics support

The company is fully equipped to meet the demands of large-scale buyers while maintaining flexibility for custom formulations.

Certifications and Compliance

• FDA Philippines Registered
• Halal Certified for Muslim markets
• Complies with HACCP, EU, and USFDA standards
• Registered with BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) for export

These certifications make ZC E & L a trusted partner in global trade and public procurement contracts.

Customer Testimonials

“Grand Kim Sardines is our best-selling Filipino canned product in our Dubai store. Customers love the flavor and the price.”
— Importer, UAE (via trade fair sourcing feedback)

“We’ve been working with ZC E & L for over 7 years. Their quality is consistent and shipments are always on time.”
— Distributor, Micronesia (from B2B review forum)

Major Achievements

• Developed four sardine brands now distributed across local and international markets
• Maintains a fleet of fishing vessels to support sustainable supply
• Recognized by Philippine Export Development Council (PEDC)
• Participated in international trade fairs, including Gulfood and IFEX Philippines

ZC E & L Corporation continues to uphold its mission of delivering high-quality Filipino sardines to the world, backed by sustainable practices, robust infrastructure, and strong brand loyalty.