Japanese-owned auto supplier marks 10th anniversary in Ky.

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (AP) — One of Kentucky’s most prominent Japanese companies is celebrating its 10th anniversary in Bowling Green.

State officials say Kobe Aluminum Automotive Products has invested more than $180 million in its Kentucky operations since establishing in Bowling Green. The officials say the automotive supplier has had five additional expansions in the past decade and currently employs almost 400 Kentuckians.

Among those participating in an anniversary celebration on Tuesday were Gov. Steve Beshear and the company’s leadership from Japan. Officials say demand is expected to keep growing for aluminum suspension, and the company is working to gain more orders for its aluminum forged parts.

Kentucky is home to more than 430 internationally based companies, including 170 from Asia.

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