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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

SODECIA-AAPICO Plan Orangeburg, South Carolina, Manufacturing Operations

12/05/2025
SODECIA and AAPICO plan to establish production operations in Orangeburg, South Carolina. The $120 million project is expected to create up to 392 jobs.

The investment will include the construction of a new 400,000-square-foot facility, located at 4100 St. Matthews Road, which will support Scout Motors and manufacture ladder frames for SUV and truck model vehicles. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027.

“We are thrilled to take this important step toward expanding our footprint in the United States. With our joint resources and the strong confidence that Scout Motors has placed in both companies, success is our only goal,” AAPICO CEO Mr. Swee Chuan Yeap said.

To support the project the Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits.

“This project symbolizes the strength of collaboration. By combining the best of both companies, we are creating a world-class facility that will deliver value to our customer and long-term opportunities for the local community,” SODECIA CEO Mr. Rui Monteiro noted.

Portugal-based SODECIA specializes in engineering and manufacturing structural components, powertrain systems and mechanisms for automotive manufacturers.

“South Carolina’s strong reputation as an automotive powerhouse continues attracting investments from global companies. We are thrilled to welcome Sodecia Aapico JV, along with this substantial $120 million investment, to Orangeburg County and look forward to building a partnership with the company as it launches its legacy in our state,” added Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III.

Thailand-based AAPICO is an automotive parts manufacturer focusing on the production of jigs, dies, press parts, chassis frame components, cradles, plastic parts, and forged and machined components.

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