Peoria, February 11 (RHC)-- Caterpillar Inc. has announced that it has selected Rimco, a privately owned Puerto Rico-based company, to be the Cat dealer for Cuba. Currently, Rimco serves as the Cat dealer for Puerto Rico and the Eastern Caribbean. Upon easing of trade restrictions, customers in Cuba will be able to purchase Cat products through Rimco in accordance with U.S. and Cuba regulations.

“We're pleased to take this important step with our longtime partner, Rimco,” said Philip Kelliher, vice president with responsibility for the Americas & Europe Distribution Services Division. “Cuba needs access to the types of products that Caterpillar makes and, upon easing of trade restrictions, we look forward to providing the equipment needed to contribute to the building of Cuba's infrastructure. This momentous announcement is part of our preparations in anticipation of the United States lifting its 55-year-old trade embargo (blockade) on Cuba.”

“We're exceptionally proud of our 34-year relationship with Caterpillar,” said Richard F. McConnie, President of Rimco. “There is great affinity between Cuba and Puerto Rico as a result of our shared language, culture and traditions. Rimco will be honored to serve the Cuba market once the United States and Cuba re-establish commercial relations.”