NORTHVILLE, MI -- Key Plastics L.L.C. has formed a new joint venture with Jiehua Automotive Trim Development Center in Shanghai. Located West of Shanghai, the new partnership is called Shanghai Key Automotive Plastic Component Company, Ltd.

According to B. Edward Ewing, chairman and CEO of Key Plastics L.L.C., the joint venture currently produces $18 million in annual revenue, which is expected to grow to $50 million in 2009. Ewing said the joint venture represents the company's continuing commitment to the Chinese market.

"We have the ability to design, develop and supply a wide range of interior, exterior and under-the-hood products to support the Chinese and export markets," he said. "I am very honored to partner with Jiehua Automotive and have great expectations for the future of the combined companies. This partnership continues Key Plastics aggressive actions to implement a global footprint in manufacturing and engineering which ensures world-class cost competitiveness and customer support. We expect additional actions to expand our rapidly growing presence in Asian markets.

The joint venture currently produces instrument panel components, interior trim, wheel covers, cluster finish panels, headlamp bezels, bumper and exterior trim components. The company plans to add additional offerings will expand to the production of door handles, radio/HVAC bezels, air vents and under-the-hood components.

The venture includes the assumption of two production facilities in the Anting and Chunshen regions of Shanghai. The facilities contain more than 160,000 square feet of floor space capable of injection molding, interior/exterior painting with a full range of assembly processes.

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