Manufacturer Fukoku plans to open a US plant for industrial rubber components, with operations scheduled to begin in January 2027.
The Japan-based company has partnered with its consolidated Korean subsidiary, Fukoku Korea, to develop the facility through a newly established US entity, FKC America. The 50:50 joint venture aims to expand into new markets by combining products already used by Hyundai Motor with a new product lineup.
The plant, located on a 59,489m² (14.7-acre) site in Virginia, will produce rubber products for damper pulleys, thermally conductive gap fillers and other battery-related products.
The companies have pledged $7.4mn in capital for the project.
Fukoku has maintained a US presence since 2001 through Fukoku America, based in Laurens, South Carolina, where it manufactures, warehouses and ships motor vehicle components.
