SC.GOV: The Official Web site of the State of South Carolina

Columbia, S.C. -  Gov. Mark Sanford and the Department of Commerce today joined Harsco Track Technologies in announcing sales contracts exceeding $350 million. The Department of Commerce assisted Harsco Track Technologies in securing the contracts with the Chinese Ministry of Railways. The company anticipates the creation of new positions at its West Columbia facility to accommodate the sales contracts.

Gov. Sanford joined representatives with Harsco and the Chinese Ministry of Railways at a signing ceremony today in Greenville. “Today’s announcement is further evidence that we are not only engaged in the global economy, but we are also taking advantage of the opportunities it presents. From day one, this administration has been committed to improving the state’s economic soil conditions for business growth, and we remain committed to continuing those efforts to keep creating jobs and opportunities for businesses,” said Gov. Sanford. “Harsco’s relationship with China is particularly significant, as it represents that business with China is a two-way street with opportunities for South Carolina companies to expand their consumer market and grow production at home.”

Since taking office in 2003, Gov. Sanford has made two official visits to China and opened the state’s first office in China operated under the Department of Commerce.

China was South Carolina’s most impressive export growth market in 2006. Exports to China rose 12.5% to more than $869 million and jumped one notch to become the state’s fourth largest export destination. The state’s exports to China are rapidly approaching the $1 billion mark, proving that China is a significant consumer of South Carolina products with strong purchasing power for continued growth. China’s top purchases include: machinery, cotton yarn and fabric, plastics, chemicals, and aluminum.