Hu Xin, CEO of Taizhou Fuling Plastics Co., Ltd., addressed local political and business leaders, and members of the press May 29 at the official opening of his company's new manufacturing facility on Grant Way, Upper Macungie Township.

Taizhou Fuling, based in China, makes plastic tableware and kitchenware used in commercial businesses, such as Subway, Burger King and McDonald's.

Speaking through an interpreter, Hu Xin mentioned his company's reach is extensive.

"It is hard to find an American who has never used a Fuling product before," he said.

Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley touted an expected 75 new full-time jobs at the new manufacturing facility.

"That is worth applause," Cawley said of the expected jobs. "Fuling choosing Allentown as its first location was not a mistake."

Jiang Guilan, president of Taizhou Fuling Plastics Co. Ltd., also addressed the audience.

Those gathered included Liu Yi, of the economic and commercial section of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in New York, Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski and Upper Macungie Supervisor Kathy A. Rader.