YKK AP Inc, a leading Japanese manufacturer of construction equipment, made waves on May 26 in Tongzhou, Nantong, with its advanced door and window system manufacturing project.

The groundbreaking ceremony for YKK AP's new project takes place in Tongzhou district, Nantong, on May 26. [Photo/WeChat account: wxntfb]

The project signifies a strategic move by this global leader in building materials to meet the needs of the Chinese market, stay abreast of technological advancements, and drive the transformation of the aluminum profile manufacturing sector.

It also marks the first time in two decades that the company has built a factory in China and is the most significant financial commitment that YKK AP has yet made in the country, with a planned total investment of $100 million.

Set for completion and operation by the end of 2026, it will become the company's largest production base in China.

Hidemitsu Hori, chairman of YKK AP, said, "Given that our major clients are concentrated in the Yangtze River Delta region, establishing a factory in Nantong will enable us to better serve them. The new factory will use Chinese equipment and prioritize cost-effectiveness. We aim to triple our 2024 business volume by 2030."

Japan's Ambassador to China Kenji Kanasugi congratulated YKK AP and thanked Nantong authorities for their continued support of Japanese firms. He noted YKK AP's reputation in automatic production and green development. With China's growing demand for high-performance materials, he believes the new factory will boost Chinese construction industry.