Ecomelida Picks South Carolina For First North American Plant

The importer and recycler of waste paper and plastic will invest $52 million its first North American operations, creating 200 jobs in Orangeburg, SC.

Ecomelida, Inc. plans to locate its first North American operations in Orangeburg, SC. The company, a U.S. subsidiary of China-based Zhangzhou Sanlida Environmental Technology Corporation, will invest $52 million in the project and is expected to create 200 new jobs.

Ecomelida Orangeburg SC
Photo: WLTX19

Zhangzhou Sanlida Environmental Technology Corporation is an importer and recycler of waste paper and plastic. Utilizing creative processes to separate pulp, plastic and aluminum from soft drink cartons and other products, the company’s recycled plastics are used in foam, cast plastic parts and more.

“Today marks another chapter for our company as we invest in this new Orangeburg County plant,” said Ecomelida, Inc. Madam Chairman Xi Cheng. “We are thankful for the assistance we have received from the state and county governments and look forward to years of continued success.”

Ecomelida’s new Orangeburg facility is expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2018.

“We’re excited to welcome Ecomelida to the South Carolina business community,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “Any time another company chooses to call South Carolina home, it’s a testament to our great workforce and business-friendly environment. The 200 jobs they’re bringing to Orangeburg County will be a tremendous, positive impact to that community.”

South Carolina’s Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. A $750,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant was also awarded to Orangeburg County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

“Foreign direct investment continues to play an important role in supporting South Carolina’s diverse economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. “Ecomelida’s new investment in Orangeburg County is a milestone for this community, and we’re excited to see what the future has in store for this innovative company.”

“We are grateful to add another Chinese manufacturing facility to our family of international companies,” said Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright Sr. “Orangeburg County has one of the highest concentrations of international companies in the state, and we welcome Ecomelida with open arms. Diversity makes us stronger in culture as well as in products made. The green initiatives of this company and the recycling of waste are major wins for our environment and landfills across the county. We look forward to many years of success.”

“South Carolina Ports Authority congratulates Ecomelida on their new operations in South Carolina,” said South Carolina Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome. “With the Port’s big-ship handling abilities and weekly Asia services, we look forward to serving their export needs.”

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