Last October, Cooper announced its intent to purchase what is China’s third largest tiremaker, which posted 2005 sales estimated at $500 million. The deal also includes 25% ownership in a steel cord factory located adjacent to Chengshan’s tire manufacturing facility in Rongchen City, Shandong, China.
Cooper said the Chinese facilities will continue producing passenger and light truck/SUV radials and radial medium truck tires for the domestic and export markets.