Natural fiber firm to open SC plant in Pamplico

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A Canadian company that produces and markets a natural fiber made from flax produced in South Carolina is investing $8 million in a plant in Pamplico.

South Carolina Commerce Secretary Bobby Hitt said Tuesday that Naturally Advance Technologies Inc. plans to create 25 jobs after it renovates a former plant in Florence County.

Hitt’s office says the business will use flax grown in Florence and surrounding counties. The agency says the company uses a special process that removes flax’s stiff binding agents and produces a flexible fabric with the softness and durability of cotton.

The company is taking applications at www.naturallyadvanced.com . It says it expects to begin operations this spring.